The "Responsible Gun Ownership Act," also known as House Bill 1019, aims to enhance firearm safety and regulation in Florida through several key provisions. It establishes a new section, 790.0653, mandating background checks for all firearm sales or transfers conducted through licensed dealers, with specific definitions provided for terms such as "background check" and "licensed dealer." The bill introduces criminal penalties for violations of these requirements and requires law enforcement to report any infractions by licensed dealers to the Attorney General. Additionally, it amends existing laws on safe firearm storage, requiring dealers to include safety devices like trigger locks with every sale and to provide written warnings about legal responsibilities regarding firearm storage, particularly for minors.

The bill also addresses unfinished firearms and the use of 3D printing for firearm manufacturing, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, or possession of firearms without valid serial numbers. It allows individuals to transport unfinished frames or receivers to law enforcement and provides exemptions for nonresidents regarding firearm possession. Furthermore, the legislation establishes the Veteran's Firearm Suicide Reduction Task Force to investigate and develop strategies to reduce veteran suicides involving firearms, with a report due by January 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and includes escalating penalties for violations of its provisions.

Statutes affected:
H 1019 Filed: 790.174, 790.175