House Bill 6684 (sHB6684 File No. 359) seeks to revise the classification of certain semiautomatic pistols under Connecticut's assault weapons regulations. The bill directs the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection to compile and annually update a list of semiautomatic pistols that are designed for target shooting and sanctioned by recognized shooting organizations, including those used in the Olympic Games. This list, which is to be made publicly available on the department's website, will identify pistols that can be legally sold or possessed in the state. The bill also amends Section 53-202b of the general statutes, removing the requirement for the Commissioner to adopt regulations for designating certain pistols as assault weapons for Olympic target shooting events and allowing the sale of pistols on the Commissioner's list with the purchaser's signed declaration of intent for target shooting use.

Additionally, the bill outlines exemptions for the possession of assault weapons by certain individuals and entities, such as law enforcement and military personnel, and specifies conditions under which individuals may possess semiautomatic pistols for approved target shooting events. It also revises the process for obtaining a certificate of possession for assault weapons, including the application process and exceptions for those who already lawfully possess such weapons. The bill prohibits the sale or transfer of assault weapons except to licensed gun dealers or through bequest or intestate succession, and it details the conditions for possessing an assault weapon with a certificate of possession. The bill's provisions are set to take effect on October 1, 2023, with the exception of the DESPP commissioner's duty to identify exempt pistols, which becomes effective on July 1, 2023. The bill passed the Public Safety and Security Committee with a vote of 18 to 7 on March 16, 2023, and has no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 53-202b, 53-202c, 53-202d
PS Joint Favorable: 53-202b, 53-202c, 53-202d
File No. 359: 53-202b, 53-202c, 53-202d