This bill proposes significant changes to the regulation of firearms, specifically repealing the local licensing requirement for the sale of pistols and revolvers. The bill amends existing laws by removing the licensing provisions under RSA 159:8, which previously required selectmen and police chiefs to grant licenses for retail sales of these firearms. Instead, it introduces a new section that mandates the identity of the purchaser to be verified, ensuring that no firearm is sold to individuals not personally known to the seller or those who cannot provide clear evidence of their identity. Additionally, the bill repeals RSA 159:10, which imposed penalties for selling firearms without a license.

Furthermore, the bill limits the liability of firearm manufacturers and federal firearms licensees concerning specific design features of firearms. It establishes that manufacturers and licensees cannot be held liable in tort for claims related to the absence or presence of certain features, such as magazine disconnect mechanisms and external mechanical safeties, unless there is an actual manufacturing defect or failure to meet express warranties. This new legal framework aims to provide greater protection for firearm manufacturers while ensuring that the identity of firearm purchasers is verified to prevent sales to prohibited individuals. The bill is set to take effect upon its passage on 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