Bill > H2665

This bill modifies Massachusetts firearms licensing procedures by expanding flexibility around fingerprint requirements for firearms identification cards and licenses to carry firearms. Specifically, the bill allows licensing authorities or the Executive Office of Public Safety to waive fingerprinting requirements in situations they deem "reasonable" if an applicant's fingerprints are not already on file with the state police. The bill amends Sections 129B and 131 of Chapter 140 of the Massachusetts General Laws to remove mandatory fingerprinting language and insert more discretionary provisions that enable licensing authorities to make case-by-case determinations about fingerprint collection. The bill is described as an emergency measure intended to ensure timely constitutional access to firearms identification cards and licenses, suggesting it aims to reduce administrative barriers to obtaining firearms permits while maintaining public safety considerations.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2665