California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, whose own state has a massive (and worsening) problem with shootings and crime, was brutally fact-checked over the weekend after he blamed a Memorial Day shooting in Hollywood, Fla., on legislation signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is currently running for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

The problem with Newsom’s criticism is that while DeSantis did sign the measure, it hasn’t taken effect yet.

According to police, an altercation that escalated into gunfire at the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk on Monday resulted in at least nine people, including minors, being hospitalized. Law enforcement has apprehended one person of interest in connection with the shooting, while another individual involved remains at large, Fox News reported.

Newsom took to social media and attributed the gun violence to a bill signed by DeSantis in April. Newsom claimed that the bill removes the necessity for individuals to acquire a permit to carry a concealed firearm.

He also claimed the permit-less carry bill DeSantis signed “removes requirements” for background checks, instruction, training, and any legal oversight.

“Until our leaders have the courage to stop bowing down to the NRA and enact common sense gun safety this kind of senseless violence will continue,” Newsom tweeted.

A Twitter user responded not long after, pointing out that the law DeSantis signed does not take effect until July 1.

Hi Gavin,

How does a law that doesn’t take effect until July 1st change this outcome? pic.twitter.com/LM97HL6vLD

— Jeremy Redfern (@JeremyRedfernFL) May 30, 2023

“Hi Gavin,” DeSantis’ press secretary Jeremy Redfern responded. “How does a law that doesn’t take effect until July 1st change this outcome?”

In addition, Newsom’s claim that the constitutional carry law eliminates background checks is false, as were other claims.

“The law allows eligible citizens 21 years of age and up to carry without asking the government for a permit and without paying a fee. The legislation does not change who is eligible to obtain a carry permit, and those who still wish to get a permit may do so under the law,” Fox News reported.

The law also mandates that residents:

• Be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States
• Be at least 21 years old
• “Desire a legal means to carry a concealed weapon” for lawful self-defense
• Pass a fingerprint-based background check
• Complete a firearms training class, among other requirements.

While the constitutional carry bill renders obtaining a license and fulfilling associated requirements optional, it’s important to note that the federal government still mandates licensed firearms dealers to conduct background checks on potential buyers. Also, neither federal nor state law requires private sellers to conduct a background check on a buyer.