If enacted, HB150 would amend existing provisions in the Hawaii Revised Statutes relating to firearm lending. Specifically, it would reduce the allowable lending period for rifles and shotguns from seventy-five days to only twelve hours, thereby tightening control over firearm accessibility. Furthermore, the bill would eliminate existing allowances for lending firearms outside of the state, positioning Hawaii to align more closely with other states that enforce stricter firearm transfer regulations.
Summary
House Bill 150 aims to introduce stricter regulations regarding the lending of firearms in Hawaii. The bill proposes to prohibit the lending of rifles and shotguns to individuals who do not possess a valid firearm permit or who do not own registered firearms. This is a direct response to current laws that allow firearms to be loaned for up to seventy-five days without any background checks, highlighting a significant shift towards stricter firearm control measures to enhance public safety.
Contention
The push for HB150 reflects an ongoing debate over firearm regulations in Hawaii. Proponents of the bill argue that it is essential for preventing firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a risk, while opponents may view such stringent measures as infringing on personal freedoms. There may be concerns about the impact on lawful firearm owners who wish to lend firearms among themselves, emphasizing the need for balance between public safety and individual rights.