Bill
Bill > HB837
PA HB837
PA HB837In firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for limit on handgun purchases; and establishing the Violence Prevention Account.
summary
Introduced
03/10/2025
03/10/2025
In Committee
03/10/2025
03/10/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in firearms and other dangerous articles, providing for limit on handgun purchases; and establishing the Violence Prevention Account.
AI Summary
This bill proposes to limit handgun purchases in Pennsylvania to one firearm per 30-day period, with specific exceptions for licensed firearm dealers, collectors, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, private security companies, and antique firearm sales. Individuals who have had a handgun stolen or lost can replace it by providing a police report with specific details. Violations of the purchase limit are initially classified as a misdemeanor of the third degree, with subsequent violations becoming a felony of the third degree. The bill establishes a Violence Prevention Account within the General Fund, which will receive fines from violations and be used exclusively for violence prevention programs, youth education, and law enforcement equipment and training. Sellers must notify prospective purchasers about the purchase limit and are required to conduct a handgun purchase history check through the Pennsylvania State Police to ensure compliance. The bill defines key terms such as "handgun," "licensed firearm collector," and "licensed firearm dealer," and specifies that the act will take effect 60 days after its passage. The primary goal appears to be reducing gun proliferation and promoting public safety by restricting the frequency of handgun purchases.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (19)
Melissa Shusterman (D)*,
Heather Boyd (D),
Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D),
Gina Curry (D),
Mary Jo Daley (D),
Kyle Donahue (D),
Dan Frankel (D),
Roni Green (D),
Liz Hanbidge (D),
Carol Hill-Evans (D),
Malcolm Kenyatta (D),
Tarik Khan (D),
Emily Kinkead (D),
Danielle Otten (D),
Chris Pielli (D),
Ben Sanchez (D),
Mike Schlossberg (D),
Ben Waxman (D),
Dan Williams (D),
Last Action
Judiciary (h) Hearing (11:00:00 9/22/2025 Room 140 Main Capitol) (on 09/22/2025)
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