This bill seeks to enhance public safety in Minnesota by prohibiting the possession, transfer, and ownership of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons. It defines these weapons and introduces criminal penalties for violations, including felony charges and fines. Current owners must certify their ownership with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension by a specified deadline and comply with strict storage and reporting regulations. Exceptions are made for law enforcement and military personnel acting within their duties. The bill also establishes a certification process that includes safe storage requirements and law enforcement inspections, emphasizing compliance and outlining penalties for non-compliance.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes related to firearm possession, particularly concerning medical cannabis use. It clarifies that using medical or adult-use cannabis does not disqualify individuals aged 21 and older from possessing firearms. The legislation removes references to "semiautomatic military-style assault weapons" in various sections, including the application process for transferee permits and grounds for disqualification. New provisions allow firearms dealers to charge fees for background checks and require records of transfers to be retained for ten years. A clause is added to maintain records of transfers of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons occurring before January 1, 2027, ensuring their relevance for law enforcement. Overall, the bill aims to balance public safety with the rights of legal cannabis users while streamlining the firearm transfer process.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.712, 609.66, 624.713, 624.7131, 624.7132, 624.7134, 624.7141, 624.7181