Permits purchase of more than one handgun in 30-day period.
If enacted, SB 2602 would significantly impact the regulatory landscape surrounding handgun sales in New Jersey. The repeal of the month-long limitation is intended to relax restrictions for lawful gun purchasers, allowing them to acquire handguns more freely. Proponents of the bill argue that this change is essential for collectors and competitive shooters who may wish to expand their collections or equipment quickly, but critics fear that such a deregulation could lead to increased gun violence and unauthorized access to firearms.
Senate Bill 2602, introduced by Senator Edward Durr, aims to amend New Jersey's existing gun laws by permitting individuals to purchase more than one handgun within a 30-day period, effectively repealing the 'one-handgun-per-month' law. This legislation seeks to eliminate the waiting period currently imposed on handgun purchases, which many proponents argue is an unnecessary restriction that infringes upon the rights of lawful gun owners. The bill, as proposed, reflects a shift toward looser firearm regulations in the state, which has a history of stringent gun control measures.
Supporters of the bill contend that the existing regulation unfairly burdens responsible firearm owners who abide by legal requirements yet face limitations on their ability to make purchases. Conversely, opponents caution that this bill may facilitate the quicker accumulation of firearms, potentially exacerbating issues related to gun violence and illegal gun ownership. The debate reflects broader societal concerns about gun rights versus public safety, illustrating the polarizing nature of firearms legislation in New Jersey.