Creates provisions relating to a prohibition on ammunition registries
If enacted, HB 689 would require that any existing records or databases containing information on ammunition sales or purchases be destroyed within ninety days of the law's effective date. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any person or business selling ammunition is not mandated to report sales or maintain personal information for the purpose of creating a registry. Law enforcement agencies would still have the authority to access specific transaction records during lawful investigations, provided that such access is obtained through a valid court-issued warrant or subpoena.
House Bill 689, known as the 'Missouri Ammunition Privacy Protection Act,' aims to prohibit the establishment of ammunition registries by government entities and private individuals or organizations. The bill specifies that no government or private entity shall create, maintain, or facilitate a registry that collects personally identifiable information about ammunition sellers or purchasers. This legislation seeks to enhance the privacy rights of individuals who engage in the purchase or transfer of ammunition in Missouri.
The legislation has raised concerns among various stakeholders, particularly around the implications for law enforcement and public safety. Supporters argue that the bill upholds the privacy rights of gun owners and prevents undue government surveillance over ammunition purchases. Conversely, opponents warn that it may hinder law enforcement's ability to trace ammunition purchases in the context of criminal investigations, potentially complicating efforts to curb gun violence.