This bill aims to enhance public safety by prohibiting the sale or transfer of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons in Minnesota. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 624.712, subdivision 7, to provide a detailed definition of what constitutes a semiautomatic military-style assault weapon, including specific models and features that qualify. The bill also removes a previous provision that exempted firearms deemed suitable for sporting purposes from being classified as assault weapons. Additionally, it establishes a new section, 624.7145, which makes it unlawful to transfer these weapons, with exceptions for certain government and law enforcement transactions. Violators of this prohibition could face felony charges, with penalties including imprisonment and fines.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a buyback program for semiautomatic military-style assault weapons, which will be managed by the commissioner of public safety. This program will allow individuals to sell their weapons to the state, regardless of the weapon's condition, with reimbursement rates determined by the commissioner. To support this initiative, the bill appropriates funds from the general fund for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to facilitate the buyback program. The revisor of statutes is also instructed to make necessary changes to existing laws to reflect these new provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.712