The new regulations imposed by HB 0279 will notably impact current Florida gun laws, including the manner in which individuals may possess, sell, or transfer assault weapons and large-capacity magazines. This bill aims to reduce access to firearms that proponents argue contribute to gun violence. Consequently, some residents may find themselves in violation of the law if they fail to secure proper certification for weapons they may have legally purchased in the past. As a result, this legislation could lead to increased scrutiny on firearm sales and regulation enforcement within the state.
Summary
House Bill 0279 seeks to establish stricter regulations regarding the ownership and transfer of assault weapons and large-capacity magazines in Florida. The bill defines what constitutes an assault weapon, listing several specific firearms and categories, and prohibits the sale or transfer of such weapons unless specific conditions are met. Individuals who currently possess these weapons will be required to apply for a certificate of possession by a specified date, effectively regulating who can keep such items legally. Violators of the regulations, including those who sell or transfer weapons unlawfully, face serious criminal penalties, which include felonies and mandatory minimum sentences.
Contention
The proposed legislation is likely to face significant opposition on various fronts. Opponents argue that the bill infringes upon Second Amendment rights and could push responsible gun owners into criminality inadvertently. There are concerns about the implications of requiring a certificate of possession, with critics suggesting it creates an unnecessary barrier to law-abiding citizens. Supporters of the bill, on the other hand, argue that these measures are essential for public safety and would help to decrease gun-related incidents in the state.
In firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for assault weapons and large capacity magazines and establishing the Firearms and Ammunition Buyback Program and the Pennsylvania State Police Buyback Fund.
In firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for assault weapons and large capacity magazines and establishing the Firearms and Ammunition Buyback Program and the Pennsylvania State Police Buyback Fund; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania State Police; and imposing penalties.
Possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines, semiautomatic military-style assault weapons, .50 caliber or larger firearms, undetectable firearms, and other weapons banned.
Possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines, semiautomatic military-style assault weapons, .50 caliber or larger firearms, undetectable firearms and other weapons prohibition
Age 21 Act This bill raises the minimum age to purchase a large capacity ammunition feeding device or semiautomatic assault weapon from 18 to 21 years of age.
Relating to firearms; to prohibit the possession, sale, or transfer of an assault weapon or large-capacity magazine under certain circumstances; to provide procedures for registration; to provide penalties for violations; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.