Substitute House Bill No. 7056, also known as Public Act No. 25-18, introduces significant amendments to existing laws governing firearm permits and transfers, set to take effect on October 1, 2025. The bill establishes a new definition for "local permitting authority," which includes the chief of police or chief executive officer of a municipality, as well as designated state police officers. It repeals the previous section 29-28 and replaces it with a new framework that requires individuals selling ten or more firearms in a calendar year to obtain a permit from the local permitting authority, accompanied by a valid eligibility certificate or state permit to carry a pistol or revolver. Additionally, the bill outlines new criteria for issuing temporary state permits, mandating criminal history checks and completion of an approved safety course for applicants, while also specifying disqualifications based on prior convictions and mental health history.

The bill further modifies the application process for temporary state permits, replacing the chief of police with the local permitting authority and allowing for applications from individuals without permanent residency in the state. It introduces new compliance obligations for retail firearm sales permit holders, including the prohibition of false information and the requirement to report missing firearms. The legislation also establishes penalties for violations and outlines a process for addressing non-compliance. Furthermore, it updates the terminology throughout the permitting process, ensuring confidentiality for permit holders' information, and mandates that all pistols and revolvers sold must be equipped with a reusable trigger lock. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability, safety, and regulation in firearm sales and ownership.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 29-28, 29-28a, 29-33
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 29-28, 29-28a, 29-28b, 29-29, 29-30, 29-32
File No. 464: 29-28, 29-28a, 29-28b, 29-29, 29-30, 29-32
Public Act No. 25-18: 29-28, 29-28a, 29-28b, 29-29, 29-30, 29-32