BURLINGTON, Vt. -
On Monday, the Burlington City Council will debate whether to outlaw semi-automatic weapons in the city.
"No one has convinced me that these weapons serve a useful purpose," says Norman Blais, D-Burlington city councilor.
Blais says he was motivated after the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School where a gunman killed 20 kids.
Now Blais wants a ban in the city of multiple ammo clips and semi-automatic assault weapons.
"Their killing potential is so awesome. I mean in a matter of a few seconds you can spray out a number of bullets and kill a number of people," says Blais.
Blais says many details of the plan, including if it would affect current gun owners, can be worked out later.
Even if the resolution passes on Monday, because it's a charter change, it still has a tough fight ahead. It would also need the approval of voters in Burlington and legislators in Montpelier.
There has already been backlash.
A pro-gun website called Ammoland.com encouraged people to contact city councilors.
Blais says he's received more than 100 emails with a common complaint.
"Do you feel at all that it impinges on the second amendment?" asked FOX 44/ABC 22.
"Well sure it does. I mean but there's no constitutional right that is unfettered or unregulated," says Blais.
On Monday, people can weigh in on the proposed ban. A public hearing is part of the city council meeting which starts at 7:30pm.
