This bill proposes the repeal of the local licensing requirement for the sale of pistols and revolvers, effectively eliminating the need for a license to sell these firearms. It amends existing laws to change the title of RSA 159:8 from "License to Sell" to "Purchase of Firearm; Identity of Purchaser," and introduces new provisions that require sellers to verify the identity of purchasers. Additionally, it modifies the penalties for violations of firearm sales regulations, allowing courts to impose fines without mandating license suspension. The bill also repeals RSA 159:10, which pertains to penalties for selling without a license.

Furthermore, the bill limits liability for firearm manufacturers and federal firearms licensees concerning specific design features, such as magazine disconnect mechanisms and external mechanical safeties. It establishes that manufacturers and licensees cannot be held liable in tort for claims based on the absence or presence of these features, while still allowing for liability in cases of actual manufacturing defects or failure to meet express warranties. The new section on limitations of actions against firearm manufacturers will apply to any product liability actions filed after the effective date of the bill, which is set for May 23, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 159:6-g
As Amended by the House: 159:6-g, 159:8, 159:8-a, 159:8-b, 159:10
As Amended by the Senate: 159:6-g, 159:8, 159:8-a, 159:8-b, 159:10
Version adopted by both bodies: 159:6-g, 159:8, 159:8-a, 159:8-b, 159:10
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 159:6-g, 159:8, 159:8-a, 159:8-b, 159:10