The bill establishes new requirements for the expungement of mental health records for individuals seeking to purchase firearms, mandating that local law enforcement be notified prior to such expungements. It amends existing laws to require that individuals petitioning for relief from a disability that prevents firearm acquisition must serve notice to the Attorney General, county prosecutor, and local police chiefs based on their residency. The court will assess the petitioner's mental health history and community reputation before making a decision on the expungement.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that prevent expunged commitments from being the sole basis for denying a firearms purchaser identification card or permit. It also enhances the confidentiality of mental health records, allowing disclosure only under specific circumstances, including compliance with federal firearm acquisition laws. The bill outlines a process for timely processing of permit applications, limits handgun purchases to one per permit within a 30-day period, and allows firearms to be passed to heirs without a permit, while maintaining restrictions on certain types of firearms. Overall, the legislation aims to balance individual rights with public safety by involving law enforcement in the expungement process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4-80.9, 30:4-24.3