The Charlie Kirk and Melissa Hortman Firearm Regulation Act aims to enhance firearm safety and regulation in Iowa through several key provisions. It mandates that individuals acquiring pistols or revolvers must either possess a valid permit or complete a national instant criminal background check. The Act also establishes a system for issuing unique serial numbers for firearms and unfinished frames, prohibits the removal of identifying marks, and imposes penalties for violations. Additionally, it creates a public safety trigger lock fund to provide free trigger locks to firearm owners and expands the definition of hate crimes to include offenses motivated by political affiliation. Notably, the bill introduces a mental health firearm safety fund to support suicide prevention initiatives related to firearms.

Furthermore, the Act introduces extreme risk protective orders (ERPOs), allowing family members or law enforcement to petition the court for an order if an individual poses a significant danger to themselves or others due to firearm possession. The process for obtaining ERPOs is designed to be accessible, with provisions for emergency orders and the requirement for hearings to assess the danger posed by the respondent. The bill mandates that respondents surrender their firearms within a specified timeframe and outlines penalties for non-compliance. It also emphasizes the confidentiality of plaintiffs' addresses and establishes policies for the storage and return of surrendered firearms. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve public safety through stricter firearm regulations and support for responsible firearm ownership, while addressing mental health concerns related to firearm access.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 724.15, 8.33, 664A.1, 236.19, 664B.15, 724.16, 724.29A