The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, CHAPTER 47.2, titled "ASSAULT WEAPONS," to Title 11 of the General Laws concerning criminal offenses. It defines "assault weapon" as any weapon that automatically shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. This definition includes the frame or receiver of such weapons, parts designed for converting a weapon into a machinegun, and any combination of parts from which a machine gun can be assembled if the parts are in the possession or control of an individual.

The bill prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, purchase, possession, or control of assault weapons by individuals, with the exception of federally licensed firearm dealers who comply with federal law. Violators of this prohibition could face imprisonment of up to ten years, fines of up to $250,000, and forfeiture of the assault weapon.

The bill specifies exemptions for certain individuals, including law enforcement officers, qualified law enforcement officers carrying proper identification, active duty members of the armed forces or national guard authorized to possess assault weapons, and individuals who were in lawful possession of an assault weapon at the time the law takes effect. The act is set to take effect on July 2, 2025.