Connecticut House Bill HB06490

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Report Pass: 3/30/11
• Refer: 4/11/11
• Report Pass: 4/18/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/10/11
• Engrossed: 5/17/11
• Report Pass: 5/19/11
• Chaptered: 6/21/11
• Enrolled: 6/24/11
• Passed: 7/8/11

Caption

An Act Establishing A Procedure For Relief From Certain Federal Firearms Prohibitions.

Impact

The enactment of HB 6490 is set to impact state laws regarding the handling of firearms prohibitions significantly. It establishes a clear process that allows for the review of individuals' mental health and criminal histories, ensuring that any decisions made are grounded in concrete evidence of the individual's current mental state and public safety considerations. This change addresses the nuances of firearms laws and mental health adjudications by potentially removing barriers for individuals who have sought recovery or rehabilitation.

Summary

House Bill 6490, also known as the Act Establishing a Procedure for Relief from Certain Federal Firearms Prohibitions, provides a legal framework for individuals who have been prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior adjudications or commitments in relation to their mental health. The bill allows such individuals to petition their local probate court for relief from these federal prohibitions, initiating a legal process intended to assess each petitioner's circumstances. The intent behind this legislation is to create an avenue for those who might have demonstrated rehabilitation or who are no longer considered a threat to public safety to regain their rights to possess firearms.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 6490 has been mixed, reflecting a broader national conversation on gun rights and mental health issues. Supporters argue that the bill strikes a necessary balance between public safety and individual rights, providing an essential legal recourse for those wronged by their past circumstances. Conversely, opponents of the bill express concerns that easing restrictions on firearm possession for individuals previously deemed a danger to themselves or others could undermine public safety and the intent of existing federal laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 6490 revolve around the risk factors associated with allowing individuals with past mental health issues to reclaim their firearm rights. Critics are particularly concerned about the inability to guarantee that these individuals pose no risk to public safety, especially considering the historical context of gun violence linked to mental health. The bill's provisions for evaluating petitions are designed to address these concerns; however, debates persist regarding the effectiveness of these procedures and their implications for community safety.