Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2376

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to change of address for firearm licensing

Impact

The proposed amendment signifies a potential shift in the regulatory framework surrounding firearm ownership in Massachusetts. By eliminating the penalty for failing to notify authorities of a change of address, the bill may ease some of the administrative burdens that firearm owners face. This could result in fewer licenses being revoked due to simple reporting oversights, enhancing public participation in responsible firearm ownership. However, it may also raise concerns among some law enforcement and public safety advocates about the ability to track firearms effectively and ensure compliance with licensing requirements.

Summary

House Bill 2376, titled 'An Act relative to change of address for firearm licensing,' was introduced to amend specific provisions of Massachusetts General Laws regarding firearm licensing. The bill specifically targets Section 129B and Section 131 of Chapter 140, which previously stated that failing to notify authorities of a change of address would result in the revocation or suspension of a firearm license or identification card. This legislation seeks to remove the aforementioned penalties for not notifying the relevant authorities about an address change.

Contention

Although the bill aims to simplify the firearm licensing process, it has sparked debate among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the current penalty is unnecessarily punitive and can disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens who may overlook the requirement. Critics, however, express concern that removing the notification requirement could undermine the integrity of the licensing system and make it more challenging to maintain accurate records of firearm owners, potentially posing risks to public safety.

Companion Bills

MA S1515

Similar To Relative to change of address for firearm licensing

MA H4900

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA H1224

Relative to state funding of certain nonprofits

MA H1389

Relative to state funding of certain nonprofits

MA H1002

Relative to the Douglas State Forest Maintenance Trust Fund

MA H3380

Relative to the annual fee for veterans' license plates

MA H2236

Relative to LSDs (Lysosomal Storage Disorders) in infants

MA H2597

Correcting credible service in the retirement system for elected officials

MA H2495

Relative to LSDs (Lysosomal Storage Disorders) in infants

MA H859

Relative to the Douglas State Forest Maintenance Trust Fund

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.