Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB898

Introduced
4/12/23  

Caption

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for firearms not to be carried without a license, for the offense of possession of firearm by minor and for loans on, or lending or giving firearms prohibited.

Impact

The bill specifically addresses the possession of firearms by minors, now stipulating that individuals under the age of 21 cannot possess or transport firearms, with specific exceptions made for those under responsible adult supervision during lawful activities. This measure is aimed at reducing incidents of firearm misuse among younger individuals and enhancing public safety. In addition to the regulations regarding possession, the bill proposes a felony charge for adults who violate these provisions by knowingly providing firearms to minors.

Summary

House Bill 898 seeks to amend certain provisions of Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning the possession and carrying of firearms. The bill primarily looks to set stricter regulations regarding the carrying of firearms without a license and clarifies the conditions under which minors may possess firearms. One notable aspect of the bill is the introduction of a sportsman's firearm permit, which can be obtained by individuals over the age of 21 who are licensed for hunting, trapping, or fishing. This permit will allow them to carry firearms in specific contexts for a duration of five years, reinforcing licensing requirements in the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 898 appears to be cautiously supportive among proponents of gun control, who argue that tightening regulations on firearms possession, especially by minors, is a positive step for public safety. However, there are concerns among gun rights advocates regarding the perceived infringement on Second Amendment rights. These discussions indicate a divided opinion, with some viewing the bill as a necessary measure to promote responsible firearm ownership, while others see it as an overreach of government regulation.

Contention

Among the notable points of contention surrounding HB 898 is the difficulty in defining reasonable exceptions for minors, specifically regarding lawful activities such as supervised hunting or target practice. Discussions may also highlight the balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining personal freedoms regarding firearm ownership. Additionally, the financial implications of obtaining permits and the potential bureaucratic process involved may be points of debate, affecting both political support and public reception of the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB357

In inchoate crimes, further providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility; in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license and relating to carrying loaded weapons other than firearms, providing for license not required, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, providing for sportsman's firearm permit and further providing for licenses, for sale or transfer of firearms, for antique firearms and for proof of license and exception; in protection from abuse, further providing for relief; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for cooperation after lawfully killing big game; and, in protection of property and persons, further providing for loaded firearms in vehicles.

PA SB357

In inchoate crimes, further providing for the offense of possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility; in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license and to carrying loaded weapons other than firearms, providing for license not required, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, providing for sportsman's firearm permit and further providing for licenses, for sale or transfer of firearms, for antique firearms and for proof of license and exception; in protection from abuse, further providing for relief; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for cooperation after lawfully killing big game; in protection of property and persons, further providing for loaded firearms in vehicles; and making editorial changes.

PA HB454

In firearms and other dangerous articles, repealing provisions relating to firearms not to be carried without a license, providing for license not required, repealing provisions relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia, further providing for prohibited conduct during emergency, providing for sportsman's firearm permit, further providing for licenses and for antique firearms and repealing provisions relating to proof of license and exception; and making editorial changes.

PA SB672

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions and for possession of firearm by minor; and making editorial changes.

PA SB559

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions and for possession of firearm by minor; and making editorial changes.

PA HB912

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses.

PA SB56

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses.

PA SB148

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses.

PA SB209

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses, providing for liability insurance and further providing for sale or transfer of firearms.

PA SB1201

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses, providing for liability insurance and further providing for sale or transfer of firearms.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.