Bill > SB136

This bill establishes protections for firearm retailers and consumers in financial transactions by prohibiting financial institutions and payment networks from discriminating against businesses selling firearms or ammunition. Specifically, the bill prevents these institutions from using specialized "firearm codes" to treat firearm retailers differently from other merchants, such as declining transactions, charging higher fees, or limiting business relationships based on these codes. The bill requires that financial institutions and payment networks process transactions for firearm retailers equally and prevents them from disclosing financial records collected in violation of these rules. If a financial institution or payment network is found to be in violation, the state's attorney general can investigate and potentially file an injunction, with potential fines up to $10,000 for each violation. Additionally, the bill prohibits the state, its political subdivisions, and other entities from maintaining lists or registries of privately owned firearms, with exceptions for criminal investigations and personal record-keeping. The bill also includes provisions for awarding attorney fees to successful petitioners and sets specific conditions for the implementation of certain sections, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the state legislature for some provisions to take effect.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB136