Connecticut Senate Bill SB00501

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/13
• Refer: 1/23/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Ban On Assault Weapons.

Impact

If enacted, SB 501 could have significant implications for gun regulation within the state. The revision to the definition would likely lead to stricter controls on the sale, possession, and use of weapons classified as assault weapons. Advocacy groups supporting gun control see this bill as a necessary step towards reducing gun-related incidents and enhancing public safety. Conversely, opponents of the bill might argue it infringes on Second Amendment rights and could potentially result in legal challenges regarding its enforcement.

Summary

Senate Bill 501, introduced by Senator Ayala, proposes an update to the existing definition of 'assault weapon' in the state's general statutes. The purpose of this legislation is to enhance public safety by addressing gaps in the current assault weapon ban. By amending section 53-202a, the bill aims to include currently unregulated weapons under the category of assault weapons, thereby expanding the scope of the ban to encompass a broader range of firearms that critics argue contribute to gun violence.

Contention

Notably, discussion around the bill could center on the balance between individual rights and community safety. Critics may voice concerns that the expanded definition might be overly broad, leading to confusion about what constitutes an assault weapon. Furthermore, there may be contention regarding the effectiveness of the proposed ban in actually reducing crime, with some arguing that it targets law-abiding citizens rather than addressing the root causes of gun violence.