Bill > SB01160

This bill, titled "An Act Concerning Gun Violence Prevention And Children's Safety," significantly revises existing laws related to firearms and school safety. Key provisions include raising the age to purchase long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, to 21 and prohibiting the sale of semi-automatic centerfire rifles that accept magazines with more than five rounds to individuals under 21, with exceptions for law enforcement and military personnel. It also mandates a "long gun eligibility certificate" for purchasing or receiving any long gun, requiring background checks and safety training. The bill introduces an "ammunition certificate" for purchasing ammunition, also subject to background checks. Furthermore, it expands the definition of "assault weapon" to include a broader range of firearms based on specific features and production dates, and it prohibits the sale, import, and possession of "large capacity magazines" (defined as those holding more than ten rounds), with exceptions for law enforcement and military, and provisions for existing owners to register them. The bill also enhances school safety by establishing a School Safety Infrastructure Council to develop safety standards for school building projects, requiring schools to develop and implement security and safety plans, and establishing school security and safety committees. It also mandates mental health first aid training for school personnel and establishes a task force to study behavioral health services. Finally, the bill revises various penalties for firearms-related offenses, including increased penalties for certain violations and changes to the classification of some felonies.