Bill > S1271

This bill amends Section 10A of Chapter 269 of the Massachusetts General Laws to redefine the penalties for possessing a firearm suppressor, which is defined by federal law (18 U.S.C. 921(24)) as any device designed to silence, muffle, or diminish the sound of a portable firearm, including any parts intended for such a device. Under the proposed changes, individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms (as defined in section 131 of chapter 140), are committing a violent crime or felony, are committing a crime of violence against a family member, or are involved in the sale or possession of controlled substances will face a penalty of up to ten years in state prison or up to two and a half years in jail. This legislation essentially strengthens the penalties for possessing firearm suppressors when linked to other criminal activities or by individuals who are already legally restricted from owning firearms.