The Responsible Gun Ownership Act aims to strengthen firearm regulations in Florida by introducing a new section, 790.0653, which mandates background checks for all firearm sales and transfers, requiring transactions between unlicensed individuals to be processed through licensed dealers. The bill outlines the responsibilities of these dealers, including conducting background checks, maintaining records, and providing written warnings to purchasers. It also specifies exceptions for law enforcement officers and certain temporary transfers, with violations resulting in criminal penalties. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws on safe firearm storage, revising penalties and expanding the definition of a minor, while prohibiting the sale of firearms without trigger locks or secure cases.

Moreover, the bill establishes new definitions and regulations regarding firearm possession, particularly for minors, and introduces guidelines for the lawful transfer of firearms to law enforcement. It mandates that licensed dealers provide safety devices with every sale and deliver written warnings about firearm storage responsibilities. The legislation also addresses unfinished firearms, requiring valid serial numbers and imposing restrictions on 3D printing without a license. The bill clarifies that sales of unfinished frames or firearms without serial numbers to licensed dealers are permissible until January 1, 2026, and is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 252 Filed: 790.174, 790.175