SB 196: Assault Weapons and Large-Capacity Magazines

• Prohibits the sale, transfer, import, or possession of assault weapons and large-capacity magazines (defined as magazines holding more than 7 rounds) effective October 1, 2018, with violations constituting felonies ranging from second to third degree.

• Provides a grandfathering period allowing persons who lawfully possessed assault weapons or large-capacity magazines before October 1, 2018 to obtain a certificate of possession by October 1, 2019 from the Department of Law Enforcement.

• Restricts use of grandfathered weapons to specified locations including the owner's residence or business, target ranges, licensed shooting clubs, and firearms exhibitions, with transport permitted only to these locations or to licensed dealers for repair.

• Defines assault weapons by specific model names (including AR-15, AK-47 variants, and specified handguns/shotguns) and by functional characteristics such as detachable magazines, folding stocks, pistol grips, and other features.

• Enhances criminal penalties under section 775.087 by creating mandatory minimum sentences of 15-25 years imprisonment for certain felonies committed while possessing an assault weapon or large-capacity magazine, with discharge of such weapon increasing penalties.