New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3281

Introduced
5/16/24  

Caption

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

Impact

The bill outlines specific exceptions allowing individuals under the age of 21 to possess firearms under defined situations, including supervision by a guardian, military drill participation, or sanctioned activities such as hunting and training at approved ranges. This provision ensures that while the age limit is elevated, certain avenues for responsible firearm handling remain accessible to younger individuals in supervised settings. There are concerns from various stakeholders that this could lead to confusion about the legal implications for younger individuals who might already own firearms or have previously obtained a firearms purchaser identification card.

Summary

Senate Bill S3281 proposes to increase the minimum age from 18 to 21 for individuals applying to receive a firearms purchaser identification card in New Jersey. This card is necessary for purchasing shotguns and rifles, while the current law allows individuals aged 18 and older to obtain such a card. The change aims to align the age requirements more closely with the existing criteria for handgun purchases, where individuals must be at least 21 years old. The rationale behind this proposed legislative change includes the ongoing debates about gun control and youth access to firearms, with advocates arguing it could enhance public safety by preventing easier access to firearms for younger individuals.

Contention

Opposition to S3281 primarily centers around concerns regarding personal rights and the impact on responsible gun owners. Critics argue that this bill could unjustly penalize young adults who are responsible and trained in firearm safety. Additionally, opponents assert that modifying the existing framework could potentially disrupt the legal standing of those currently holding identification cards who may fall into the age category being restricted. The discussions around the bill highlight broader divisions on gun rights and regulations, reflecting the ongoing discourse in New Jersey surrounding gun ownership and control.

Companion Bills

NJ A931

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

NJ S504

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

NJ A509

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

Previously Filed As

NJ S504

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

NJ A931

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

NJ A509

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

NJ S3148

Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.

NJ S2023

Concerns issuance of permit to purchase handgun and firearms purchaser identification card to persons age 18 to 25.

NJ A4370

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.

NJ S2906

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.

NJ A3481

Authorizes issuance of duplicate firearms purchaser identification cards for change of address with certain proof.

NJ S1145

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.

NJ S2506

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.

Similar Bills

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 A5483

Removes State Police as point of contact for firearm purchase background checks; requires firearm retailers to contact FBI to initiate background checks.

NJ A5210

Requires household members of firearm purchasers to receive background check.

NJ S4264

Requires State Police to inform local law enforcement if certain prohibited persons attempt to purchase firearm or ammunition.

NJ A5323

Requires State Police to inform local law enforcement if certain prohibited persons attempt to purchase firearm or ammunition.

NJ S2563

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.

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.