DE HB58

Prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, purchase, receipt, and unlawful possession of large-capacity magazines, defined as ammunition feeding devices with capacity to accept more than 10 rounds.

Makes possession of large-capacity magazines unlawful only when in a public place while in possession of a firearm capable of accepting the magazine; affirmative defense available if either the magazine or firearm was not readily operable.

Exempts armed forces members, National Guard members acting in official capacity, qualified active duty and retired law-enforcement officers, and shooting range employees conducting short-term rentals (up to 8 hours).

Exempts licensed firearms dealers and manufacturers when repairing, servicing, or altering magazines to accept 10 rounds or fewer, or selling to exempted persons or government agencies.

Establishes penalties of class A misdemeanor for first offense and class G felony for subsequent offenses, with Superior Court having exclusive jurisdiction; effective date of July 1, 2013.