This bill, designated as RSA 159-G, mandates that all firearm transfers in New Hampshire be conducted through a licensed firearms dealer who will perform a criminal background check and maintain a record of the transfer, in alignment with federal law. The intent is to enhance public safety by preventing firearms from being acquired by individuals who are legally prohibited from owning them, such as felons and those with a history of domestic abuse or mental illness. The bill introduces a new chapter that outlines definitions related to firearm transfers, including terms like "firearm," "prohibited person," and "licensed firearms dealer."

Key provisions of the bill include a requirement for a mandatory waiting period of 72 hours after the initiation of a background check before a firearm can be delivered to a purchaser, with certain exceptions for temporary transfers during activities like hunting or shooting, transfers between immediate family members, and transfers involving law enforcement. Violations of the provisions will result in penalties ranging from a class B misdemeanor for first offenses to a class A misdemeanor for subsequent offenses. The bill also clarifies that it does not alter existing duties of the Department of Safety or require the establishment of a firearms registry. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.