NJ A511

Applicants for firearms purchaser identification cards or handgun permits who have obtained an active domestic violence restraining order against an offender would receive priority processing of their applications over other applicants.

The bill amends N.J.S.2C:58-3 to require that background investigations for these applicants take precedence when a restraining order under the "Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991" is in effect.

Firearm application forms would be updated to include a question asking whether the applicant currently has a domestic violence restraining order in effect against an offender.

The standard processing timeframe remains 30 days for New Jersey residents and 45 days for nonresidents, but prioritized applicants would have their investigations completed ahead of others in the queue.

Sponsored by Assemblyman Robert Auth (District 39, Bergen County) and pre-filed for introduction in the 2026 legislative session.