This bill amends the existing laws regarding the possession and sale of blackjacks, slung shots, and metallic knuckles by prohibiting individuals under the age of 18 from carrying these items. The new legal language specifies that any person under 18 who carries such weapons will be guilty of a violation, and the items will be forfeited to the state. Additionally, it establishes that any person who sells or transfers these weapons to someone under 18 will also be guilty of a violation. The bill repeals RSA 159:17, which previously outlined exceptions to the prohibition against carrying or selling these weapons.

The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2027. The fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, as it may affect the judicial and correctional systems, potentially influencing costs related to prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole for the state, counties, and local governments. However, the estimated revenue and expenditures for the state and local governments are projected to be $0 for the fiscal years 2026 through 2029.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 159:17