This bill aims to enhance public safety by addressing gun trafficking and firearm possession regulations. It mandates the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and Violent Crime Enforcement Teams to report on gun trafficking investigations and firearm seizures, including specific data on the number of firearms seized and investigations conducted. The bill also amends the definition of "trigger activator" to include devices that allow semiautomatic firearms to fire multiple shots with a single pull and release of the trigger. Additionally, it increases penalties for transferring firearms to individuals who are ineligible to possess them, changing the consequences from a gross misdemeanor to a felony, with potential imprisonment of up to five years and fines up to $20,000.

Furthermore, the bill introduces an affirmative defense for individuals charged with transferring firearms under compulsion from a transferee who threatens substantial harm. This defense can be invoked if the defendant can prove that they were coerced into the violation due to a reasonable fear of harm to themselves or their family. The bill also clarifies that the court may consider evidence of past domestic abuse or violent crimes when determining the applicability of this defense. The effective dates for the new provisions are set for January 1, 2025, and August 1, 2024, for different sections of the bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.7141
1st Engrossment: 624.7141
2nd Engrossment: 624.7141