COOL OFF Act Choosing Our Own Lives Over Fast Firearms Act
The impact of HB 667 directly influences current federal firearm regulations. By instituting a minimum waiting period, the bill proposes changes to section 922 of title 18 in U.S. Code, altering how non-licensees obtain handguns. The bill aims to preemptively address potential gun violence by delaying access to handguns, fostering a more responsible gun ownership culture among the public. This change may not only affect individual buyers but also influence the operations of firearms dealers and law enforcement agencies whose processes must align with this new requirement.
House Bill 667, known as the Choosing Our Own Lives Over Fast Firearms Act or COOL OFF Act, mandates a three-day waiting period before an individual is permitted to receive a handgun. This legislation aims to provide a cooling-off period for those purchasing firearms, with the intention of reducing impulsive acts of gun violence. During this waiting period, various procedures must be followed by both unlicensed individuals and licensed firearms dealers, ensuring comprehensive checks are completed before the handgun transfer occurs.
The bill is likely to generate significant debate within legislative chambers. Proponents argue that the waiting period is a vital step towards improving public safety and reducing gun-related incidents. They believe this added precaution can prevent tragedies that often occur in the heat of the moment. Conversely, opponents may contend that such regulations infringe upon individual rights and may not necessarily lead to a decrease in violence, questioning the efficacy of waiting periods as a means of enhancing gun safety.