The "Responsible Gun Ownership Act," also known as House Bill 65, seeks to strengthen firearm regulations in Florida by introducing comprehensive measures for the sale, transfer, and storage of firearms. A key feature of the bill is the establishment of a new section, 790.0653, which mandates background checks for all firearm transactions conducted through licensed dealers. The bill also revises existing safe storage requirements in section 790.174, specifying that firearms must be stored in securely locked containers and introduces penalties for violations that result in access by minors or prohibited users. Additionally, the legislation requires dealers to provide safety devices, such as trigger locks, with every sale and to inform purchasers of their legal responsibilities regarding firearm storage.

Moreover, the bill addresses unfinished firearms and serial numbers, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, or possession of firearms without valid serial numbers and regulating the use of 3D printers and CNC milling machines for firearm production. It allows nonresidents to possess or import firearms while traveling for specific events and grants new residents a 90-day window to imprint valid serial numbers on their firearms. The bill also permits the sale of unfinished frames or receivers without serial numbers to licensed dealers until January 1, 2026, facilitating compliance for those in the firearms industry. The act is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025, aiming to enhance firearm safety and accountability in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 65 Filed: 790.174, 790.175