This bill seeks to enhance public safety in Minnesota by prohibiting the possession of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons and large-capacity ammunition magazines. It defines these terms and establishes that it is unlawful for individuals to transfer, own, or possess such weapons and magazines, with exceptions for government officials, military personnel, and law enforcement. Current owners are required to request certification from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and comply with specific storage and reporting regulations. The bill also outlines penalties for violations, including felony charges for unlawful possession and gross misdemeanors for noncompliance with certification requirements. Owners must surrender their weapons or magazines, modify them to be permanently inoperable, or remove them from the state by set deadlines, with the provisions taking effect on August 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding firearm possession and transfers, removing references to semiautomatic military-style assault weapons and focusing on pistols and large-capacity magazines. It establishes criteria for denying firearm transfer applications based on the potential danger posed by the transferee, mandates written notification of denials, and allows for reconsideration based on additional documentation. The bill emphasizes record-keeping and background checks while ensuring that certain records do not identify the transferee. Overall, the legislation aims to regulate firearm ownership and transfers more strictly while maintaining public safety.

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