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Bill > A5679
NJ A5679
NJ A5679Allows active duty members of United States military to carry firearm at all times.
summary
Introduced
05/15/2025
05/15/2025
In Committee
05/15/2025
05/15/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill allows active duty members of the United States Armed Forces or of the National Guard to carry a personal or service rifle or handgun at all times in this State. Current law permits members of the military to carry weapons authorized by the appropriate military authorities while on duty or while traveling between places of duty. Under the bill, military personnel may only carry firearms authorized for civilian use in New Jersey while off duty. Recently, terrorist organizations claiming affiliation with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) have threatened to attack members of the military and their families within the United States. Whether motivated by terrorism or otherwise, members of the military have been targeted in the 2007 plot to attack Fort Dix, the 2009 shootings at Fort Hood, the 2009 attack on an Army recruiting center in Little Rock, the 2013 shootings at the Washington Navy Yard, and the 2015 attacks on a recruiting center and a Navy Reserve facility in Chattanooga. This bill would permit members of the military stationed in New Jersey to carry a firearm at all times in order to protect themselves, their families, or other unarmed civilians in the event of a terrorist attack.
AI Summary
This bill amends New Jersey law to allow active duty members of the United States Armed Forces or the National Guard to carry a personal or service firearm at all times while in the state. The legislation specifically adds a new provision to the existing statute that exempts active duty military personnel from weapons restrictions, permitting them to carry firearms in New Jersey even when not on official military duty. The bill's context stems from concerns about potential threats to military personnel, referencing past incidents such as terrorist attacks and shootings targeting military members and facilities. By providing this expanded firearm carry permission, the bill aims to enhance the personal safety of active duty military personnel, enabling them to protect themselves, their families, and potentially other civilians in the event of a security threat. The bill requires that any firearms carried must be authorized for civilian use in New Jersey, and active duty members must still comply with existing firearms regulations. The legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee (on 05/15/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5679 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/A6000/5679_I1.HTM |
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