Providing for individuals to voluntarily register for the Pennsylvania Do-Not-Sell List maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police, for firearms not to be in the possession of a registrant and for advertising by the Department of Health; and imposing penalties.
Impact
The implementation of SB641 will significantly affect existing gun control laws in Pennsylvania. By creating a registrant list, it establishes a new legal mechanism for individuals who may be at risk of self-harm or who wish to ensure they do not acquire firearms. The bill also outlines specific processes for individuals to register and subsequently remove their names from the list. Additionally, penalties are set for any violations related to the unlawful sale of firearms to individuals on the registry and for unauthorized disclosures of registrant information.
Summary
Senate Bill 641, known as the Do-Not-Sell Firearm Registry Act, aims to establish a voluntary registry in Pennsylvania where individuals can register to be included on the Pennsylvania Do-Not-Sell List maintained by the State Police. This legislation is intended to provide a means for individuals to prevent themselves from being sold firearms, particularly in contexts related to mental health and suicide prevention. The bill requires the Pennsylvania State Police to create an Internet-based system that enables individuals to submit personal information securely and voluntarily, allowing them to formally register their desire not to have firearms in their possession.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB641 appears to be mixed, reflecting broader national discussions about gun control and mental health. Supporters advocate for the bill as a necessary measure to improve public safety and provide individuals with a means to opt-out of firearm ownership. They view it as a proactive step in addressing issues related to mental health and preventing potential tragedies. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding privacy, the potential for misuse of the information submitted to the registry, and the implications for Second Amendment rights. The debate highlights the sensitive nature of balancing public safety with individual liberties.
Contention
Notably, the bill addresses several points of contention concerning the treatment of individuals who choose to register. Critics argue that including personal information in a governmental registry may lead to stigmatization and discrimination against those seeking mental health support. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding how effectively the registry would prevent firearm sales without infringing on individual rights and whether the potential penalties associated with violations sufficiently safeguard privacy. The effectiveness of the bill in achieving its intended outcomes and minimizing abuse has been a crucial part of the legislative discourse.
Providing for individuals to voluntarily register for the Pennsylvania Do-Not-Sell List maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police, for firearms not to be in the possession of a registrant and for advertising by the Department of Health; and imposing penalties.
In firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for assault weapons and large capacity magazines and establishing the Firearms and Ammunition Buyback Program and the Pennsylvania State Police Buyback Fund; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania State Police; and imposing penalties.
Requiring persons convicted of arson and related offenses to register with local authorities; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Parole Board; and imposing a penalty.
Relating to firearms; to create the Voluntary Alabama Firearms Do-Not-Sell List; to allow an individual to voluntarily add himself or herself to the list; to establish procedures for an individual to be removed from the list; to prohibit certain actions regarding individuals on the list; to provide penalties for certain violations; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.
Providing for individuals to voluntarily register for the Pennsylvania Do-Not-Sell List maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police, for firearms not to be in the possession of a registrant and for advertising by the Department of Health; and imposing penalties.
In falsification and intimidation, providing for the offense of failure to comply with child abuse offender registration requirements; in sentencing, providing for registration of child abuse offenders; and imposing penalties.
In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; and, in protection of property and persons, providing for mitigation of damage and for registry of responsible hunters.
Requiring persons convicted of arson and related offenses to register with local authorities; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Parole Board; and imposing a penalty.
Requiring persons convicted of arson and related offenses to register with local authorities; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Parole Board; and imposing a penalty.
In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for sale or transfer of firearms, for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and for the offense of altering or obliterating marks of identification and providing for destruction of confiscated or recovered firearms.
In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for sale or transfer of firearms, for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and for altering or obliterating marks of identification and providing for destruction of confiscated or recovered firearms.