Wisconsin, New York and Illinois Tackle Gun Laws Related to Waiting Periods, Lost and Stolen Firearms and More

Top 5 Things Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) Need to Know About Recent Gun Laws

As a federal firearms licensee (FFL), staying informed about the latest state and federal regulations is essential to maintaining compliance and avoiding legal risks. Recently, significant changes have been introduced at both the state and federal levels, including new laws in New York, Illinois, and ongoing federal legislation under review. Here are the top five key points FFLs should be aware of regarding these new regulations:

1. New York’s Senate Bill 6649: Firearm Dealer Warning Requirements

 Under New York Senate Bill 6649, firearm dealers must now provide explicit warnings about the dangers of weapon access within homes, particularly when it involves minors. The goal of this law is to raise awareness about the risks associated with unsecured firearms, especially in households with children. As an FFL in New York, you are required to ensure that these warnings are clearly displayed in your store and that customers are informed before purchasing a firearm. Non-compliance could result in legal penalties, so it’s essential to review the specific language and posting requirements of this mandate.

2. New York’s Senate Bill 7365: Regulation of Pistol Converters

 Also in New York, Senate Bill 7365 now imposes stricter controls on pistol converters, such as devices that can convert a semi-automatic pistol into an automatic weapon. If your dealership sells or handles such devices, it is critical to understand the new regulatory requirements. FFLs must ensure that all sales and transfers of pistol converters comply with the updated state laws, which include background checks and tighter restrictions on who can legally purchase these items.

3. Wisconsin Senate Bill 675: Handgun Purchase Waiting Period (Proposed but Canceled)

While Wisconsin’s Senate Bill 675 proposed the introduction of a waiting period for handgun purchases, it has since been canceled. Although this bill won’t affect current sales practices, it’s a reminder of how quickly gun legislation can change. FFLs in Wisconsin should stay vigilant about any new proposals or revisions to gun laws that could impact business operations in the future. Regularly check for updates from state lawmakers and legal advisories to avoid surprises.

4. Illinois House Bill 5888: Mandatory Reporting of Lost or Stolen Firearms

Illinois House Bill 5888 requires FFLs and gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms within a specific timeframe. As an FFL operating in Illinois, you are obligated to inform law enforcement if any firearm in your inventory is missing. This law is designed to prevent lost or stolen guns from being used in crimes without traceability. Failing to comply with this law could lead to fines and potential revocation of your license, making it essential to develop an internal reporting procedure to ensure all incidents are documented promptly.

5. Federal House Resolution 9941: Prohibition of Government ID for Firearm Purchases by Illegal Aliens

At the federal level, House Resolution 9941 is under review by the House Judiciary Committee. This bill proposes that U.S. government-issued identification for illegal aliens (such as certain types of driver’s licenses) should not be considered valid for firearm purchases. While this resolution is still pending, FFLs across the country should be prepared for potential changes in ID verification requirements. Ensure that your staff is trained to follow current federal guidelines on acceptable identification and stay updated on any developments from the federal government.

Conclusion

As gun laws evolve at both state and federal levels, it’s critical for FFLs to remain informed and adapt their operations to maintain compliance. New York’s dealer warning and pistol converter regulations, Illinois’s reporting requirements, and pending federal legislation are just a few examples of the shifting landscape. By keeping up with these laws, FFLs can protect their businesses and contribute to responsible gun ownership.

 Ensuring that you stay on top of these regulations will help you avoid penalties, protect your license, and ensure the safety of your customers and the public.

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