The enactment of HB 804 would amend Article 134-2 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, modifying the existing background check procedures for gun permit applications. It would introduce a necessitated inquiry into applicants’ status concerning the Terrorist Screening Database, where the issuing authority must ensure that the FBI is informed about the background check requests. Such measures aim to fortify the regulations surrounding firearm purchases, particularly for those whose name appears on the watchlist, thus addressing the concerns over individuals who may pose threats to public safety.
House Bill 804 proposes significant changes to the gun permit application process in Hawaii, specifically regarding individuals listed on the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Terrorist Screening Database, commonly known as the terrorist watchlist. The bill aims to enhance public safety by requiring that the Terrorist Screening Center be notified as part of the gun permit background check process. This initiative is a response to the alarming statistics, which indicate that individuals on the watchlist have attempted to purchase firearms numerous times, achieving success in a large percentage of cases.
While supporters of the bill argue that this is a crucial step towards preventing firearms from falling into the hands of suspected terrorists and enhancing community safety, critics might see it as a potential overreach that could infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens. The bill’s impact on legal firearm ownership and the implications for those mistakenly placed on the watchlist are points of contention. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how effectively these checks can be implemented and the potential legal implications for individuals affected by erroneous listings.