The proposed bill seeks to enhance public safety in Minnesota by prohibiting the possession, transfer, and ownership of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons. It provides a detailed definition of these weapons, establishes criminal penalties for violations, and outlines exceptions for certain government officials and law enforcement personnel. Current owners of such weapons must certify their ownership by a specified deadline and adhere to a certification process that includes safe storage and renewal every three years. The bill also mandates that inherited weapons must be surrendered, rendered inoperable, or removed from the state, while ensuring data privacy regarding ownership certifications.

In addition to these provisions, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes related to firearm possession and transfer regulations. It introduces stricter eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to possess firearms, particularly those with prior convictions, and clarifies that participation in medical cannabis programs does not disqualify individuals from firearm possession. Significant deletions from current law include the removal of references to semiautomatic military-style assault weapons, indicating a shift in focus towards regulating pistols. The bill establishes penalties for violations and outlines the conditions under which firearm transfers can occur, ensuring that transfers to individuals prohibited from possession under federal or state law cannot take place.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.712, 13.871, 609.66, 624.713, 624.7131, 624.7132, 624.7134, 624.7141, 624.7181