CT HB06490

Allows persons with federal firearms disabilities under 18 USC 922(d)(4) and 922(g)(4) resulting from state adjudications or commitments to petition probate court for relief from those disabilities, effective July 1, 2011.

Petitioner must submit certified medical records, criminal history information, character references, and releases authorizing access to health, mental health, military, immigration, and court records related to the petition.

Probate court shall hold a hearing with notice to the petitioner, Commissioner of Public Safety, the court that rendered the original adjudication or commitment, and any conservator appointed for the petitioner.

Petitioner bears burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that they are not likely to act dangerously to public safety and that granting relief is not contrary to public interest; court must consider the circumstances of the disability, petitioner's record, and reputation.

Either party may appeal the probate court's decision to Superior Court for de novo review; if relief is granted and upheld on appeal, the Commissioner of Public Safety shall coordinate removal from the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and notify the Attorney General of the United States.