Bill > H2611

This bill addresses firearm licensing during a state of emergency, specifically pandemics or other emergency situations where police departments may be unable to process license renewal applications. Under this proposed legislation, any firearm licenses that expire during such an emergency will remain valid until the police department can fully process or deny the renewal. Importantly, the bill preserves the existing authority of the Chief of Police to revoke a firearms license if there are circumstances that warrant such action, as outlined in existing Massachusetts General Laws (MGL). The primary intent of this bill appears to be preventing law-abiding gun owners from becoming technically non-compliant with licensing requirements due to administrative delays caused by emergency conditions, while still maintaining public safety provisions that allow for license revocation if necessary.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2611