Bill > SB347

This bill addresses the handling of firearms when an individual is placed on a mental health crisis hold, which is a temporary detention for mental health assessment typically lasting up to 72 hours. Under the new law, if an officer places a person on such a hold, they are authorized to immediately confiscate any firearm found on the person or in their immediate vicinity. The officer must provide the person with a receipt describing the firearm and a notice explaining the procedures for its return. Upon the person's release from treatment, the law enforcement agency will return the firearm unless one of two conditions are met: (1) an officer files an application for an order for protection against high-risk behavior, or (2) the person is legally prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. This legislation aims to balance public safety concerns during mental health crisis situations with an individual's rights to firearm ownership, providing a structured process for temporary firearm removal and potential return based on the specific circumstances of each case. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.