The bill requires the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) to produce a biennial report on firearm-related crimes in Massachusetts for the years 2022-2023. This report will include comprehensive statistics on firearm-related crimes, arrests, prosecutions, and the origins of illegal firearms, and must be submitted to various legislative committees by March 1 of every even-numbered year. The EOPSS will utilize the National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) and collaborate with local police departments to enhance data collection, while also addressing challenges such as inconsistent reporting from smaller agencies. The report aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of existing firearms regulations and the impact of recent laws on crime rates.
Additionally, the bill mandates firearms licensing authorities to submit annual reports on crime gun seizures, revealing that 4,900 firearms were recovered in 2022-2023, with a notable increase in seizures compared to the previous period. The bill introduces new legal language to ensure that data on firearm sales, active licenses, and firearm-related crimes is publicly accessible through online resources, promoting transparency and accountability. It also includes detailed tables outlining firearm-related activity across municipalities, which will aid in informed discussions on gun control and public safety measures. Importantly, the bill notes that there were no changes to firearms laws during the specified years.