House Bill No. 7052 seeks to amend Connecticut's laws concerning large capacity magazines (LCMs) and ammunition sales by redefining "large capacity magazine" to include devices that hold more than fifteen rounds, an increase from the previous limit of ten rounds. The bill clarifies lawful possession conditions for individuals who purchased LCMs before April 4, 2013, while maintaining penalties for violations related to distribution, importation, and possession, categorizing them as either a class D felony or a class A misdemeanor based on firearm eligibility. Additionally, the bill introduces specific exemptions for law enforcement, military personnel, and licensed gun dealers, and allows for the transfer of LCMs through bequests or intestate succession.

The legislation also includes significant legal language changes, such as the deletion of provisions allowing sales to federally licensed firearm manufacturers, importers, dealers, or collectors, and the insertion of new provisions permitting sales to patrons of firing or shooting ranges, exempting them from certain ammunition purchase requirements. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025. The bill is projected to incur a one-time cost of $15,000 for the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to upgrade software, along with potential ongoing costs and revenue losses related to LCM transfers and associated fines.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 53-202w
PS Joint Favorable: 53-202w
File No. 462: 53-202w