The bill S.167, introduced by a group of Vermont Senators, aims to prohibit the possession of semiautomatic assault weapons. It adds a new section, 13 V.S.A. 4028, which explicitly states that individuals are not allowed to possess these types of firearms. Violators of this law would face penalties of up to one year in prison, a fine of up to $500, or both. However, there are exceptions for federal law enforcement officers and active members of the military who possess these weapons for legitimate law enforcement purposes.

The bill defines semiautomatic assault weapons in detail, including specific features that categorize firearms as such, like the ability to accept detachable magazines and certain physical characteristics. It also clarifies what does not fall under this definition, such as manually operated firearms, those rendered permanently inoperable, antique firearms, and certain semiautomatic rifles and shotguns with limited magazine capacities. The act is set to take effect upon passage.