MASS Act Making America Safe and Secure Act of 2023
One significant aspect of SB1824 is its focus on preventing firearms access to individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. The bill requires states to develop standards for identifying prohibited individuals based on their criminal history, mental health adjudications, and domestic violence circumstances. Additionally, states will be mandated to create mechanisms for family members to petition for extreme risk protection orders, which can temporarily remove firearms from individuals presenting potential threats.
SB1824, titled the Making America Safe and Secure Act of 2023 (MASS Act), aims to provide grants to states for the implementation and maintenance of firearms licensing requirements. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for firearm ownership, enhancing public safety measures while ensuring that certain standards are met by states in managing firearms licensing. This framework includes the establishment of licensing authorities and mandatory background checks for all license applicants, which may include interviews and references.
Critics of the bill may argue that imposing additional licensing requirements may infringe upon Second Amendment rights and create barriers for responsible gun owners. Proponents counter that these measures are necessary to improve community safety and reduce gun-related violence by keeping firearms away from individuals who pose a risk. Debate may arise regarding the balance between public safety and individual freedoms, specifically concerning the effectiveness and administration of background checks and the criteria for prohibiting license issuance.