Senate Bill 88 Summary

• Permits any citizen except convicted felons to transport rifles or shotguns open and unloaded in motor vehicles at any time.

• Allows citizens age 21 and older without a handgun license to transport loaded pistols openly in vehicles, and permits unlicensed citizens to leave concealed loaded pistols in locked, unattended vehicles.

• Changes improper firearm transportation citation from mandatory to discretionary ("shall" to "may") for unlicensed individuals transporting loaded pistols during traffic stops, maintaining a fine of $70.00 plus court costs.

• Prohibits law enforcement from disarming or physically restraining individuals possessing unconcealed weapons in vehicles absent reasonable suspicion of other criminal activity.

• Restricts firearm confiscation to situations involving arrest for other offenses or probable cause the weapon is contraband or used in a crime, with required return if charges are dismissed or person is acquitted.

• Effective November 1, 2015.