NJ A195

Background investigations for firearms purchaser identification cards, handgun purchase permits, and permits to carry handguns must take precedence over other applicants if the applicant has obtained a domestic violence restraining order against an offender under New Jersey's Prevention of Domestic Violence Act

Application forms for firearms purchaser identification cards and permits to purchase or carry handguns must include a question asking whether the applicant currently has a restraining order in effect against a domestic violence offender

Standard processing timeframes remain unchanged (30 days for residents, 45 days for nonresidents for identification cards; 90-120 days for carry permits), but domestic violence victims' applications must be prioritized within those windows

The bill aims to expedite the ability of domestic violence victims to legally obtain firearms for self-protection by moving their applications to the front of the processing queue