Georgia House Bill HB45

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23

Caption

Brady Law Regulations; three-day waiting period for purchase or transfer of certain firearms; require

Impact

If enacted, HB45 would impact current firearms purchase protocols in Georgia by imposing a standard three-day waiting period for licensed dealers, manufacturers, and importers. This period is meant to provide additional time for thorough background checks under the existing NICS protocols. It will specifically affect the procedures surrounding firearm transactions, requiring law enforcement agencies to have access to records for criminal investigations. The intended effect is to deter impulsive purchases that could lead to violent incidents.

Summary

House Bill 45 proposes an amendment to the Brady Law Regulations within Georgia's Official Code. The bill seeks to establish a mandatory three-day waiting period for the purchase or transfer of certain firearms, aiming to enhance background checks and potentially reduce gun violence by allowing a cooling-off period for buyers. This legislative effort reflects ongoing debates surrounding gun control and public safety, marking a significant step in the state’s regulation of firearm transactions.

Contention

The imposition of a waiting period is expected to spark contention among various stakeholders. Supporters of the bill will likely argue that the waiting period will contribute to public safety by ensuring more responsible gun ownership, while opponents may view this as an infringement on Second Amendment rights. The bill includes exceptions for individuals holding a weapons carry license and other defined categories, which could be points of contention in discussions around accessibility and regulation.