This bill amends New Jersey's definition of "firearm" to explicitly state that BB guns are not classified as firearms under state law. The revised definition specifies that air guns or pistols using air, compressed air, or carbon dioxide to propel a ball or non-pointed pellet that does not exceed .177 caliber at a muzzle velocity of less than 500 feet per second are excluded from the firearm classification. This change aims to clarify the legal status of BB guns, ensuring they are not subject to the stringent licensing and permitting requirements that apply to traditional firearms.

The bill's language removes the phrase "without limitation" from the definition of "firearm" and adds specific criteria that delineate BB guns from other types of firearms. By doing so, the legislation seeks to alleviate regulatory burdens on BB gun owners and users, aligning New Jersey's laws with the intent to differentiate between more dangerous firearms and less lethal air-powered devices. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.