Bill > S1259

This bill, titled "Prohibiting the confiscation of lawfully owned firearms during a state of emergency," aims to amend Chapter 140 of the General Laws by adding a new section, 129E, which explicitly prohibits any government official or person acting on behalf of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from ordering or causing the confiscation of any lawfully carried or lawfully owned firearm, rifle, shotgun, machinegun, or ammunition. This prohibition extends to law enforcement officers and other public officials. Violators of this section would face a civil fine ranging from $500 to $5,000 for each unlawfully confiscated firearm, or imprisonment for up to two and a half years. However, the bill includes exceptions, stating that this prohibition does not apply to the confiscation of firearms from individuals who have been arrested, are subject to a protection order under Chapter 209A (a chapter concerning domestic violence prevention), or have had their firearm identification card or license to carry revoked or suspended.