Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.
Impact
If enacted into law, this legislation would amend Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, getting added to section N.J.S.2C:58-3. The requirement for a screening process introduces a new layer of evaluation for younger applicants, potentially altering how young adults access handguns in New Jersey. This could lead to a decrease in firearm purchases and ownership among this demographic if the screenings are effective in identifying at-risk individuals. By imposing such measures, the bill reflects a response to concerns regarding gun violence and mental health issues prevalent in younger individuals.
Summary
Senate Bill S3148 addresses the issuance of permits to purchase handguns and firearms purchaser identification cards for individuals aged 18 to 25. This bill mandates that applicants in this age group must undergo a screening process developed by the Commissioner of Human Services in consultation with the Attorney General. The aim of the screening is to assess whether the applicant poses a significant danger of bodily injury to themselves or others through the custody, ownership, or possession of firearms. Consequently, if an applicant is deemed a risk, the permit or identification card would not be issued.
Contention
Opponents of S3148 may view the requirements as overly restrictive and an infringement on the rights of young adults who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights. Additionally, while intended to enhance public safety, questions about the effectiveness and implementation of the screening process may arise. There may also be concerns regarding how the criteria for determining 'significant danger' will be established and the discretion given to state officials in making these determinations. Debate over the balance between public safety and individual rights is likely to be a significant aspect of the legislative discussions surrounding this bill.
Requires training prior to issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for ten years.
Requires training for issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provide firearms purchaser identification card include photograph and thumb print and remain valid for ten years.
Gives priority to applicants for firearms purchaser identification card and permits to purchase handguns when domestic violence restraining order is in effect.
Gives priority to applicants for firearms purchaser identification card and permits to purchase handguns when domestic violence restraining order is in effect.
Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.
Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.
Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.
Provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for four years; requires training prior to issuance of firearms cards and handgun purchase permits; revises procedures for passing of firearms to heir or legatee.
Allows county sheriffs to issue firearms identification cards and permits to purchase handguns; authorizes county sheriffs to accept applications for permits to carry handguns.
Removes State Police as point of contact for firearm purchase background checks; requires firearm retailers to contact FBI to initiate background checks.
Requires training prior to issuance of firearms purchaser identification card and permit to purchase handgun under certain circumstances; provides that firearms purchaser identification card is valid for ten years.
Requires chief law enforcement officer or Superintendent of State Police to notify federal immigration authorities when non-citizen applies for firearms purchaser identification card or handgun purchase permit.