New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3148

Introduced
10/3/22  

Caption

Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.

Impact

If enacted into law, this legislation would amend Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, getting added to section N.J.S.2C:58-3. The requirement for a screening process introduces a new layer of evaluation for younger applicants, potentially altering how young adults access handguns in New Jersey. This could lead to a decrease in firearm purchases and ownership among this demographic if the screenings are effective in identifying at-risk individuals. By imposing such measures, the bill reflects a response to concerns regarding gun violence and mental health issues prevalent in younger individuals.

Summary

Senate Bill S3148 addresses the issuance of permits to purchase handguns and firearms purchaser identification cards for individuals aged 18 to 25. This bill mandates that applicants in this age group must undergo a screening process developed by the Commissioner of Human Services in consultation with the Attorney General. The aim of the screening is to assess whether the applicant poses a significant danger of bodily injury to themselves or others through the custody, ownership, or possession of firearms. Consequently, if an applicant is deemed a risk, the permit or identification card would not be issued.

Contention

Opponents of S3148 may view the requirements as overly restrictive and an infringement on the rights of young adults who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights. Additionally, while intended to enhance public safety, questions about the effectiveness and implementation of the screening process may arise. There may also be concerns regarding how the criteria for determining 'significant danger' will be established and the discretion given to state officials in making these determinations. Debate over the balance between public safety and individual rights is likely to be a significant aspect of the legislative discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2023

Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.

NJ A4370

Requires training prior to issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for ten years.

NJ S2906

Requires training for issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provide firearms purchaser identification card include photograph and thumb print and remain valid for ten years.

NJ S1977

Gives priority to applicants for firearms purchaser identification card and permits to purchase handguns when domestic violence restraining order is in effect.

NJ S612

Gives priority to applicants for firearms purchaser identification card and permits to purchase handguns when domestic violence restraining order is in effect.

NJ S2506

Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.

NJ S1145

Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.

NJ A993

Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.

NJ A843

Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.

NJ A3618

Allows county sheriffs to issue firearms identification cards and permits to purchase handguns; authorizes county sheriffs to accept applications for permits to carry handguns.

Similar Bills

NJ S2023

Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.

NJ A5483

Removes State Police as point of contact for firearm purchase background checks; requires firearm retailers to contact FBI to initiate background checks.

NJ A4370

Requires training prior to issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for ten years.

NJ A5210

Requires household members of firearm purchasers to receive background check.

NJ S2563

Requires chief law enforcement officer or Superintendent of State Police to notify federal immigration authorities when non-citizen applies for firearms purchaser identification card or handgun purchase permit.

NJ S3281

Increases from 18 to 21 age at which person is eligible to receive firearms purchaser identification.

NJ A5323

Requires State Police to inform local law enforcement if certain prohibited persons attempt to purchase firearm or ammunition.

NJ S4264

Requires State Police to inform local law enforcement if certain prohibited persons attempt to purchase firearm or ammunition.