Louisiana House Bill HB277

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/18
• Refer: 2/28/18
• Refer: 3/12/18

Caption

Prohibits the sale of assault rifles to any person under the age of twenty-one years

Impact

If enacted, HB 277 would implement significant changes to the existing firearms regulations in Louisiana. By defining what constitutes an assault rifle and establishing legal repercussions for non-compliance, the bill reinforces state-level controls over firearm sales, notably emphasizing the protection of minors. This legislation could potentially reduce the accessibility of assault rifles to younger individuals, thereby aiming to lower the risk of gun-related incidents involving this demographic. The implications of this bill resonate beyond mere legislative changes, pointing towards a cultural and societal stance on gun ownership and youth safety.

Summary

House Bill 277 seeks to enhance public safety by prohibiting the sale of assault rifles to individuals under the age of twenty-one. This legislation aims to address concerns regarding youth access to militarized firearms, which have been highlighted by various incidents of gun violence. The bill proposes to create a new criminal offense for the unlawful sale of such weapons, with clearly defined penalties for violators. The act of selling an assault rifle to someone under this age would lead to a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for no more than six months, or both, thereby underlining the seriousness of this issue.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 277 is highly charged, reflecting a broader national debate on gun control and Second Amendment rights. Supporters of the bill predominantly view it as a necessary measure to safeguard younger generations from the risks associated with assault weapons. Conversely, opponents often frame the bill as another instance of governmental overreach, arguing that it could infringe upon the rights of lawful gun owners. The discourse surrounding the bill encapsulates a pivotal conflict between the need for public safety and the expansive views on individual rights concerning firearm ownership.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding HB 277 lies in the balance between regulation and personal freedom. While advocates emphasize the need for stricter regulations to protect young people, critics warn about the implications for responsible gun owners. The definition of what qualifies as an 'assault rifle' is also a point of debate, with various interpretations leading to differing opinions on the necessity and effectiveness of such legislation. Thus, the bill not only addresses the specific issue of youth access to firearms but also invites a larger dialogue about gun laws and their enforcement in the state.