The bill H. F. No. 2609 focuses on enhancing public safety measures related to firearms in Minnesota. It mandates the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and Violent Crime Enforcement Teams to submit detailed reports on gun trafficking investigations and firearm seizures, including the number of firearms seized, investigations conducted, and a summary of the types of investigations. Additionally, the bill amends the definition of "trigger activator" to include a new category of devices that allow a firearm to shoot one shot on the pull of the trigger and a second shot on the release of the trigger. The effective date for this amendment is set for January 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the bill increases penalties for transferring firearms to individuals who are ineligible to possess them, changing the offense from a gross misdemeanor to a felony, with potential imprisonment of up to five years and fines up to $20,000. It also introduces an affirmative defense for individuals who may have been coerced into transferring firearms under threats of substantial bodily harm. This provision is effective from August 1, 2024, and applies to crimes committed on or after that date. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen regulations surrounding firearm possession and transfer, thereby enhancing public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.67
1st Engrossment: 624.7141
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 624.7141
CCR-HF2609: 624.7141