Bill > H0383

This bill establishes a voluntary firearms licensing system in Vermont where individuals can obtain a license from the Department of Public Safety to purchase firearms. To obtain the license, applicants must submit a comprehensive application including personal details, criminal and mental health history, fingerprints, and household information. The Department will conduct a thorough background check through Vermont, out-of-state, and federal criminal databases. Licenses will be valid for two years and cost $35, with a renewal process that requires similar scrutiny. The Department may deny a license to individuals who are legally prohibited from possessing firearms, have not completed a firearms safety course, are subject to certain protective orders, or are deemed a potential risk to themselves or others. License holders must notify the Department of address changes and can have their license revoked if they become ineligible. Significantly, individuals with a current firearms purchase license will be exempt from the standard 72-hour waiting period when purchasing a firearm. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to create a more structured and controlled process for firearm purchases while maintaining individual choice through its voluntary nature.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.383