The bill H.200, introduced by Representative LaLonde, aims to align Vermont's firearm possession laws with federal regulations by prohibiting individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness from possessing firearms. It also seeks to enhance penalties for individuals who violate these restrictions, particularly for those with prior offenses. Specifically, the bill amends 13 V.S.A. § 4017 to establish that a first offense of illegal firearm possession will result in a maximum of two years imprisonment or a $1,000 fine, while a second or subsequent offense will lead to a maximum of three years imprisonment or a $5,000 fine.

Additionally, the bill modifies 13 V.S.A. § 4017a to include new provisions that prevent firearm possession by individuals who have been found by a court to be in need of treatment or who have been subject to hospitalization orders due to mental health issues. The penalties for violating this section mirror those in § 4017, with the same tiered approach to first and subsequent offenses. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to public safety while ensuring that its laws are consistent with federal standards.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-4017, 13-4017a