SAN DIEGO — Millions of dollars were just approved for gun violence prevention.
The investment is set to expand California's landmark 'red flag' gun law, that allows law enforcement to remove firearms from potentially dangerous situations.
Remember post 9/11 – if you see something, say something. Well this too is all about paying attention to what's happening around you and reporting it, if something just doesn't feel quite right.
"Our City is safer because of it," Assemblymember Brian Maienschein said.
California's 'red flag' law went into effect in 2016. Supporters say it has saved countless lives.
"More than 1,500 deadly weapons have been removed from dangerous situations in just the past 5 years," San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said.
It allows anyone of us to ask the courts to temporarily have firearms taken from someone in crisis who may be a threat to themselves or others. It can also temporarily stop them from purchasing a new weapon. Your request after calling police, or filing paperwork at the courthouse, can be approved within an hour.
"In our nation where we hear so much about mass shootings, this is local government taking action to save lives," Mayor Gloria added.
The majority of cases involve domestic violence or thoughts of suicide, but it was also just used following a school shooting threat at Rancho Bernardo High School. A gun violence restraining order was issued against the minor.
"When a search warrant was served they found unregistered firearms, ghost gun supplies and explosives. Unspeakable tragedy may have been prevented because high school students spoke up and San Diego police followed up," the Democratic Representative said.
With its success, Assemblymember Maienschein just secured $2.2 million to further fund San Diego's Gun Violence Prevention Unit at the City Attorney's Office. They will help train and provide 'red flag' resources to other local cities.
"I have also proposed two new bills that strengthen protections against people who pose a significant harm and close loopholes in our firearm laws," the Assemblymember added.
Police say no tip is too small. They would rather investigate, and prevent any tragedies.
The law remains controversial among gun rights activists, who argue the law violates due process.
It's a judge who determines if their guns should be taken away – and that can range from 21 days to five years.
WATCH RELATED: San Diego leader in red flag gun laws, now under discussion in Congress