US SB123

Authorizes the Attorney General to award competitive grants to states, local governments, and Indian tribes to develop, implement, and evaluate handgun purchaser licensing programs

Requires eligible grant recipients to have licensing laws mandating applicants be at least 21 years old, submit fingerprints and photographs, pass background checks, and renew licenses every 5 years or less

Applicants must apply through a law enforcement agency in their state of residence and cannot receive a license if prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g))

Cites research findings that Connecticut's 1995 handgun licensing law reduced firearm homicides by 27.8% and suicides by 32.8%, while Missouri's 2007 repeal increased firearm homicides by 47.3%

Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to add a new "Handgun Licensing Grant Program" with authorization for appropriations as necessary