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Christie Won't Take Stand On An Assault Weapon Ban

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Gov. Chris Christie is refusing to take a position on President Barack Obama's call for a federal ban on assault weapons.

The governor was asked several times at a Statehouse news conference Thursday to weigh in on Obama's proposals for bans on assault weapons and magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds.

Christie chose not to take a stand. He says he has no influence over what Congress and the president decide.

He says New Jersey is taking a more deliberative approach to gun control, mental health and school security by forming a task force to study the issues and make recommendations within 60 days.

New Jersey has had an assault weapons ban in place for 21 years, and Christie says he supports state gun laws already on the books.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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