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 stipulations regarding the identity verification of purchasers. Specifically, it mandates that no firearm can be sold to a buyer who is not personally known to the seller or who does not provide clear evidence of their identity. Additionally, the bill repeals RSA 159:10, which imposed penalties for selling 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. The new section on limitations of actions against firearm manufacturers and federal firearms licensees will apply to any product liability actions filed on or 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