The law, AB144, makes it a misdemeanor to carry an exposed and unloaded gun in a public place.

The governor's office made the announcement in a statement early Monday morning. Brown has been rushing to sign dozens of measures sent to him by lawmakers.

Top California law enforcement officials supported the legislation.

The Los Angeles Times reports that Brown said he had "listened to the police chiefs."

Supporters say the only person who knows whether the gun is loaded is the person carrying the gun. Opponents say the bill is one of many assaults on the public's Second Amendment rights.