Overview
- Creates a state gun dealer licensing program administered by the Department of Justice with phased implementation dates.
Key provisions
- Requires state licenses for dealers selling firearms, frames, receivers, and unfinished frames or receivers.
- Sets phased start dates for licensing, with specified dealers beginning July 1, 2027 and broader requirements by July 1, 2028.
- Authorizes DOJ to set licensing fees and eligibility criteria.
- Directs DOJ to conduct licensee inspections and adopt rules for training, storage, and security.
- Requires employee background checks and specific recordkeeping by licensees.
- Establishes the Firearm Dealer License Fund and requires annual reporting to the Legislature.
- Requires gun show transferors to hold a state license.
Penalties / enforcement
- Selling firearms as a dealer without a state license is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment and a $125,000 fine.
- DOJ may suspend or revoke licenses or impose civil penalties for specified violations.
Effective date / timeline
- Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.
- Licensing begins July 1, 2027 for specified dealers and July 1, 2028 for all other dealers.
Exceptions / carve-outs
- Phased implementation creates timing differences for certain dealer categories.