New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5503

Introduced
5/25/23  

Caption

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

Impact

The implementation of this bill will necessitate modifications to current firearm purchasing regulations as it supplements Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes. In practice, any individual who registers will have their name included in the checks conducted during firearm purchases, significantly impacting how background checks are processed. It will also lead to discussions within law enforcement and mental health agencies, as it mandates educational outreach to psychiatric facilities about this registry, thereby bridging the gap between mental health considerations and firearm possession regulations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5503 establishes a 'Do Not Sell' registry that allows individuals in the State of New Jersey to voluntarily include their names to prohibit the sale of firearms to them. This is aimed at enhancing public safety by providing a mechanism for those who may feel unsafe or believe they should not possess firearms to formally indicate their intent to avoid firearm purchases. The bill requires the Superintendent of State Police to create and manage this Internet-based registry, which would include various safeguards to protect personal information while notifying registered individuals about the implications of their registry status.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A5503 include concerns about the potential stigma attached to being listed on the registry, as well as the fear of misuse of the registry without consent. Critics argue that there is a fine balance between enhancing public safety and ensuring that individuals' rights and privacy are upheld. Furthermore, the bill criminalizes the transfer of firearms to individuals who are on this registry, raising debates on enforcement challenges and the implications for gun ownership rights. These discussions reflect deeper societal issues regarding gun legislation and individual rights.

Companion Bills

NJ S3811

Same As Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include their names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1018

Establishes registry allowing persons to voluntarily include names on list of individuals prohibited from owning firearm.

NJ A3536

Establishes 180 day prohibition on purchase of handgun for certain individuals who fail to report loss or theft of firearm.

NJ A2960

Establishes reasonableness standard for persons lawfully transporting firearm who deviate from course of travel.

NJ HB2379

Requiring the Kansas bureau of investigation to establish a Kansas voluntary do-not-sell firearms list to prevent the purchase of firearms by any person who voluntarily registers to be placed on the list.

NJ A1569

Disqualifies person named on federal Terrorist Watchlist from obtaining firearms identification card or permit to purchase handgun.

NJ S1654

Increases from 18 to 21 age at which person is eligible to receive firearms purchaser identification.

NJ A1481

Increases from 18 to 21 age at which person is eligible to receive firearms purchaser identification.

NJ S1871

Establishes reasonableness standard for persons lawfully transporting firearm who deviate from course of travel.

NJ A4737

Establishes "Responsibility in Firearms Sales Act"; requires licensing of firearms manufacturers.

NJ S2351

Requires State Police to inform local law enforcement if certain prohibited persons attempt to purchase firearm or ammunition.

Similar Bills

NJ A1155

Establishes State Parkinson's disease registry.

OH SB236

Enact the Suicide Self-Defense Act

NJ A1016

Requires automatic registration with New Jersey Immunization Information System upon administration of vaccine for certain persons who consent to registration.

NJ S2987

Requires automatic registration with New Jersey Immunization Information System upon administration of vaccine for certain persons who consent to registration.

NJ A3853

Establishes State Parkinson's disease registry and awareness campaign.

TX HB772

Relating to the immunization data included in and excluded from the immunization registry.

TX SB46

Relating to the immunization data included in and excluded from the immunization registry.

LA HB541

Establishes a registry for individuals and entities that provide caregiving services (EN NO IMPACT See Note)