HB4959 Summary

• Expands handgun safety device requirements to apply to any person selling, offering for sale, or transferring a handgun (previously limited to federally licensed dealers).

• Requires that handguns sold or transferred to unlicensed individuals include a safety device or mechanism designed to render the handgun temporarily inoperable or inaccessible, such as an external locking device or integrated mechanical safety.

• Establishes violation penalties: Class C misdemeanor with minimum $1,000 fine for first offense; Class A misdemeanor for second or subsequent violations.

• Exempts purchases and sales involving federal, state, and local law enforcement; armed forces; federally licensed dealers dealing with each other; permanently inoperable firearms; and antique firearms.