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Bill > S3001


NJ S3001

NJ S3001
Requires use of merchant category codes for purchases of firearms and ammunition.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires merchant acquirers to use the merchant category code for firearms and ammunition businesses established by the International Organization for Standardization. The bill defines "firearms merchant" as a business physically located in this State for which the highest sales value is, or is expected to be, from the combined sale in this State of firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition, as stated by the business to its merchant acquirer in the ordinary course of business. Under the bill, the term "merchant acquirer" means an entity that establishes a relationship with a merchant for the purposes of processing credit, debit, or prepaid transactions. The bill authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action to enforce the provisions of the bill against any person that violates the provisions of the bill and who does not cure the violation. A person determined by a court to have violated the provisions of the bill is subject to: (a) a civil penalty in the amount of $10,000 for each violation; (b) injunctive relief sufficient to prevent the person from further violations; and (c) reasonable attorney's fees and costs incurred in investigating and bringing an action pursuant to the bill.

AI Summary

This bill mandates that starting May 1, 2027, entities that process credit, debit, or prepaid transactions for businesses, known as "merchant acquirers," must use a specific industry-standard code for businesses primarily selling firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition. A "firearms merchant" is defined as a business located in the state whose main sales come from these items, as reported to their merchant acquirer. The Attorney General is empowered to enforce this law through civil actions, with violations potentially resulting in a $10,000 penalty per violation, court orders to stop further violations, and reimbursement of legal costs, though businesses are given an opportunity to correct violations before legal action is taken.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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