If enacted, the bill mandates that the National Tracing Center within the ATF will create and maintain electronic databases containing detailed records from licensed firearms dealers. These records will be searchable based on various criteria, but will not include any personally identifiable information of individuals. This modernization aims to improve law enforcement's ability to track firearms and support investigations involving crime guns, thus contributing potentially to a decrease in gun-related crime and enhancing public safety.
Summary
House Bill 730, known as the Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2023, proposes amendments to section 923 of title 18, United States Code, with the goal of establishing an electronic, searchable database for all records related to firearms. This includes records of importation, production, shipment, receipt, sale, or any other disposition of firearms. The intention of the bill is to enhance traceability and streamline the management of firearms data by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) over the next three years following its enactment.
Contention
However, the bill could face opposition. Critics may argue that it imposes additional regulatory burdens on firearms dealers, especially concerning the required electronic access to their records. There could be concerns regarding privacy and how the data might be used, especially among gun rights advocates who fear overreach and potential misuse of the database. Balancing the need for traceability in firearms and the rights of individuals in relation to privacy and gun ownership will be a significant point of contention in the legislative discussions ahead.
Relating to appointment of and performance of notarial acts by an online notary public and online acknowledgment and proof of written instruments; authorizing a fee and creating a criminal offense.