New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5503

Introduced
5/25/23  

Caption

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

Impact

The implementation of this bill will necessitate modifications to current firearm purchasing regulations as it supplements Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes. In practice, any individual who registers will have their name included in the checks conducted during firearm purchases, significantly impacting how background checks are processed. It will also lead to discussions within law enforcement and mental health agencies, as it mandates educational outreach to psychiatric facilities about this registry, thereby bridging the gap between mental health considerations and firearm possession regulations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5503 establishes a 'Do Not Sell' registry that allows individuals in the State of New Jersey to voluntarily include their names to prohibit the sale of firearms to them. This is aimed at enhancing public safety by providing a mechanism for those who may feel unsafe or believe they should not possess firearms to formally indicate their intent to avoid firearm purchases. The bill requires the Superintendent of State Police to create and manage this Internet-based registry, which would include various safeguards to protect personal information while notifying registered individuals about the implications of their registry status.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A5503 include concerns about the potential stigma attached to being listed on the registry, as well as the fear of misuse of the registry without consent. Critics argue that there is a fine balance between enhancing public safety and ensuring that individuals' rights and privacy are upheld. Furthermore, the bill criminalizes the transfer of firearms to individuals who are on this registry, raising debates on enforcement challenges and the implications for gun ownership rights. These discussions reflect deeper societal issues regarding gun legislation and individual rights.

Companion Bills

NJ S3811

Same As Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

Previously Filed As

NJ S3811

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ S590

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ A327

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ A1295

Establishes 180 day prohibition on purchase of handgun for certain individuals who fail to report loss or theft of firearm.

NJ A2758

Establishes 180 day prohibition on purchase of handgun for certain individuals who fail to report loss or theft of firearm.

NJ A604

Disqualifies person named on federal Terrorist Watchlist from obtaining firearms identification card or permit to purchase handgun.

NJ A634

Disqualifies person named on federal Terrorist Watchlist from obtaining firearms identification card or permit to purchase handgun.

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.

NJ S3281

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

Similar Bills

NJ S3811

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ S590

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ A327

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ A5174

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ A3173

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ S1517

Authorizes issuance of protective orders for certain victimized persons in situations for which domestic violence statutes do not apply due to lack of familial or dating relationship between victim and offending actor.

NJ S2750

Makes various changes to address sexual assault and child abuse and neglect involving military personnel; addresses protection, penalties, enforcement, jurisdiction, and victim compensation matters.

NJ A2770

Authorizes issuance of protective orders for certain victimized persons in situations for which domestic violence statutes do not apply due to lack of familial or dating relationship between victim and offending actor.