The bill H.606 proposes several amendments to Vermont's firearms laws aimed at enhancing public safety. Key provisions include classifying the theft of any firearm as grand larceny, thereby increasing penalties for such offenses. It also seeks to impose stricter penalties for individuals who possess firearms after being prohibited due to prior violent crime convictions, with increased penalties for second or subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill prohibits firearm possession by individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness, and bans the possession of machine guns and rapid-fire devices.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subchapter that holds members of the firearms industry liable for public nuisance claims, requiring them to implement reasonable controls to prevent the unlawful sale and distribution of firearms. This includes measures to prevent sales to individuals prohibited from possessing firearms and to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. The bill aims to enhance accountability within the firearms industry while addressing public safety concerns related to gun violence.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-2501, 13-4017, 13-4017a, 13-4022