SPONSOR: Doll
This bill establishes the "Gun Theft Prevention Act". A federally licensed firearm dealer must not, after January 1, 2027, engage in the sale or dealing of firearms unless the licensed dealer submits a security plan to the Department of Public Safety and, no later than one year after approval of such plan, the Department inspects the premises of the licensed dealer to confirm that the measures stated in the plan have been adopted.
After the initial inspection by the Department, the licensed dealer must annually certify that each of the dealer's business locations is in compliance with the plan, conduct an inventory of the dealer's firearms, and report any missing firearms.
The security plan must address how the licensed dealer will secure the business premises to prevent theft or loss of firearms, including in the event of natural disaster or other emergency. The Department may prescribe standards for security plans.
This bill requires that a licensed dealer report the theft or loss of a firearm within 48 hours after the theft or loss is discovered to the department and appropriate local law enforcement authorities. Within 30 days of a report of loss or theft of a firearm, the department must conduct an inspection of the premises and provide to licensed dealer a notification of any violations with security requirements, including recommendations for security improvements.
Before January 1, 2028, and annually thereafter, the Department must submit a written report to the General Assembly on the implementation of the provisions of this bill.
The Department may impose a schedule of graduated civil penalties, as described in the bill, including and up to issuing an order to stop engaging in the sale or dealing of firearms until the violations have ceased. If the Department finds that the nature of the violation presents an imminent risk to public safety, the Department must immediately issue an order to the dealer to stop engaging in the sale or dealing of firearms until such violation has ceased.
Statutes affected: