Bill > SB948

This bill modifies existing California laws regarding firearm safety certificates, which are required for purchasing, receiving, or transferring firearms. Primarily, it extends the timeframe from 60 to 180 days for individuals importing firearms into the state to obtain a valid firearm safety certificate and include it in their report to the Department of Justice, with violations still being a misdemeanor. Furthermore, starting July 1, 2028, applicants for a firearm safety certificate will be required to complete an 8-hour training course within the preceding year, which includes live-fire shooting exercises and instruction on firearm laws, safe handling, secure storage, conflict resolution, and use-of-force guidelines, though this requirement will not apply to those with valid concealed carry weapon permits. The bill also makes a violation of bringing a firearm into the state without a valid safety certificate a misdemeanor and clarifies that the costs for implementing these changes can be covered by the Dealers’ Record of Sale Special Account.