Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB48

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in inchoate crimes, further providing for prohibited offensive weapons and for possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility; in assault, further providing for assault of law enforcement officer and for discharge of firearm into an occupied structure; in theft and related offenses, further providing for definitions; in riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for prohibiting of paramilitary training; in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions, for persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms, for firearms not to be carried without a license and for prohibited conduct during emergency, providing for 3-D printed firearms and further providing for sale or transfer of firearms, for firearm sales surcharge, for registration of firearms, for licensing of dealers and for abandonment of firearms, weapons or ammunition.

Impact

If enacted, SB48 would bring significant changes to the state's approach to firearm regulation, imposing stricter controls on possession and use. This included more stringent requirements for firearm registration and the certification of firearm dealers. The bill aims to prevent illegal ownership and use of firearms while addressing public safety concerns regarding violent crimes featuring firearms. It would fundamentally alter existing laws around possession, usage, and the sale of firearms across the state.

Summary

SB48 aims to amend various provisions related to firearm regulation and inchoate crimes. This bill seeks to enhance definitions regarding prohibited offensive weapons, particularly focusing on the possession of firearms in court facilities and the assault of law enforcement officers. Notably, it addresses issues concerning the discharge of firearms into occupied structures and introduces regulations related to 3-D printed firearms. Additionally, it sets out to impose a surcharge on firearm sales and outlines procedures for the registration of firearms and licensing of dealers.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB48 was mixed, reflecting a deep divide in public and legislative opinion on firearm regulation. Proponents of the bill argued that it would enhance public safety and prevent gun violence, particularly in environments such as courts and schools. Conversely, opponents expressed concerns about potential overreach and the infringement of individual rights. This polarization illustrated the ongoing national debate regarding gun control and individual liberties.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SB48 included the implications of stricter regulations on lawful gun owners and concerns about the effectiveness of such regulations in reducing crime. Critics argued that increased regulations might not effectively prevent illegal activities and could unduly burden responsible owners. Additionally, discussions of 3-D printed firearms raised significant ethical and regulatory questions about modern technology's intersection with traditional firearm laws. Overall, these debates underscored the complexities and sensitivities involved in legislating firearm use and ownership.