Connecticut House Bill HB05970

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21

Caption

An Act Concerning The Municipal Regulation Of Firearms.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05970 would substantially alter the landscape of firearm regulation in Connecticut by eliminating local control. Currently, municipalities may enact their own ordinances regarding firearms tailored to their local community needs, addressing specific concerns that are sometimes not covered by state law. This bill's passage would mean that only statewide regulations would apply, potentially hindering local governments' ability to respond to issues pertaining to gun violence or safety in their communities.

Summary

House Bill 05970 proposes to amend Chapter 98 of the General Statutes to prohibit municipalities from adopting ordinances related to the regulation of firearms. The bill is introduced by several representatives and reflects an intent to centralize firearm regulation at the state level. This legislative action aims to create uniformity in firearm laws across the state, preventing local governments from enacting regulations that could vary widely from one municipality to another. Proponents of the bill argue that this measure is necessary to ensure that evading state laws through local ordinances does not occur.

Contention

The bill has been met with contention among various stakeholders. Supporters, primarily from pro-gun organizations, argue that the bill protects the Second Amendment rights of citizens by preventing local restrictions that could infringe on those rights. On the contrary, opponents—including local government officials and advocacy groups—believe that these proposed changes undermine local sovereignty and public safety. They assert that localities should have the authority to address specific community issues related to firearms, particularly in urban areas that may face different challenges than rural areas.