SB 715 Summary

• Expands state prosecutor authority to investigate officer-involved shootings resulting in death to include cases where there is reasonable dispute as to whether the civilian was armed, not just confirmed unarmed incidents.

• Prohibits minors from possessing semiautomatic centerfire rifles immediately and all firearms commencing July 1, 2023, with specified exceptions for lawful recreational activities and hunting with parental consent.

• Establishes procedures for firearm dealers unable to complete private party transfers: if unable to return firearms to prohibited sellers, dealers may store the firearm for 45 days while the seller designates another eligible recipient, then deliver to law enforcement if no recipient is found.

• Modifies hunting license requirements for firearm purchases under age 21 to require valid and unexpired licenses only (eliminating prior year licenses) and mandates Department of Justice verification of license validity by July 1, 2025.

• Exempts licensed ammunition manufacturers from certain firearm transfer requirements and creates new firearm safety certificate exemptions for loans to minors and ammunition manufacturer operations.