Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to study the technological viability of personalized firearms; defines personalized firearms; requires the division to report to the governor and the legislature on the results of the study.
Impact
If enacted, this legislation could significantly influence state laws concerning firearm regulations. Personalized firearms would likely shift the landscape of firearm ownership and use by adding layers of technology aimed at enhancing safety. This could lead to broader discussions about firearm accessibility and responsibility, particularly in terms of preventing accidental discharges or unauthorized use. The requirement for a performance standards study suggests a commitment to ensure that any technology developed builds confidence among law enforcement and the public alike in the functionality and reliability of personalized firearms.
Voting
The bill has already gone through various legislative procedures, including a recent floor vote where it garnered 97 votes in favor and 50 against. Support and opposition may reflect broader societal divides over gun control measures, with some legislators championing technological solutions to improve safety, while others resist changes that they perceive as infringing on individual rights.
Summary
Bill A01191, known as the "Safer Weapons, Safer Homes Act," aims to address firearm safety through technological advancements by introducing the concept of personalized firearms. These are defined as firearms that incorporate a programmable feature designed to prevent them from being fired by anyone other than the legal owner or an authorized user. The bill mandates the Division of Criminal Justice Services to conduct a study to evaluate the technological viability of such firearms, looking into performance standards and identifying qualifying makes and models within a two-year timeframe.
Contention
The primary points of contention surrounding A01191 may arise from diverse perspectives on gun ownership rights versus community safety. Proponents of personalized firearms tout the benefits of improved safety measures in preventing accidents and misuse. However, critics may argue that mandating technological solutions could complicate access and infringe on Second Amendment rights. Additionally, concerns about the affordability and availability of these firearms could surface, particularly if the technology proves to be costly or inaccessible to average consumers.
Same As
Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to study the technological viability of personalized firearms; defines personalized firearms; requires the division to report to the governor and the legislature on the results of the study.
Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to certify the technological viability of personalized handguns and to establish requirements related to the sale of personalized handguns; defines personalized handgun; requires the division to establish and maintain a roster of all personalized handguns approved for retail sale to the public; requires the division to report to the legislature on the technological viability of personalized handguns.
Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to certify the technological viability of personalized handguns and to establish requirements related to the sale of personalized handguns; defines personalized handgun; requires the division to establish and maintain a roster of all personalized handguns approved for retail sale to the public; requires the division to report to the legislature on the technological viability of personalized handguns.
Relates to reports on untested sexual offense evidence collection kits; requires law enforcement agencies to report to the division of criminal justice services on the number of tested and untested sexual offense evidence collection kits; requires the division to report on the results of such report to the legislature.
Directs the commissioner of the division of criminal justice services to study gender disparity in sentencing outcomes and make a report to the governor and the legislature of his or her findings, conclusions and recommendations.