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Assault Weapons Ban of 2023
1/22/2024, 7:00 PM
Summary of Bill S 25
The Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 seeks to address concerns about the use of these types of firearms in mass shootings and other acts of violence. Proponents of the bill argue that restricting access to assault weapons can help reduce the frequency and severity of such incidents, while opponents argue that the legislation infringes on Second Amendment rights.
If passed, the bill would require individuals who currently own assault weapons to either surrender them to law enforcement or register them with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The legislation also includes provisions for penalties for violations, such as fines and potential imprisonment. Overall, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 is a controversial piece of legislation that has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public. Supporters believe it is a necessary step to address gun violence, while opponents argue that it infringes on constitutional rights. The bill's fate in Congress remains uncertain as it continues to be debated and discussed.
Congressional Summary of S 25
Assault Weapons Ban of 2023
This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD).
The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model.
The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD:
- importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments;
- importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and
- possession by a retired law enforcement officer.
The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties.
The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD.
Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture.
The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.
