The bill H.381, introduced by Representatives Arsenault, Rachelson, and Mrowicki, aims to prohibit the manufacture and transfer of gas-operated semiautomatic firearms in Vermont. It introduces a new section, 13 V.S.A. 4028, which outlines specific prohibitions against manufacturing, transferring, offering for sale, purchasing, or receiving these firearms. The bill defines gas-operated semiautomatic firearms and includes provisions for a list of prohibited firearms to be published by the Attorney General. It also establishes penalties for violations, which may include imprisonment for up to one year or fines up to $1,000.

Additionally, the bill provides exceptions for certain transfers, such as those involving law enforcement or military personnel, and allows licensed dealers to transfer firearms they lawfully possessed before the effective date of the act, which is set for October 1, 2025. The Attorney General is tasked with updating the list of prohibited firearms annually, and there are provisions for appeals regarding the inclusion of firearms on this list. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance public safety by regulating the possession and transfer of specific types of firearms.