# Plain Language Summary: Assault Weapons Ban of 2023

This bill would ban the sale and possession of certain types of firearms that supporters call "assault weapons." The law would make it illegal to manufacture, transfer, import, or possess these specific guns, with some exceptions for firearms owned before the law takes effect. The bill defines assault weapons very broadly, covering semiautomatic rifles (guns that fire one bullet per trigger pull but automatically reload), certain pistols, and specific shotguns that have features like pistol grips, folding stocks, or the ability to accept detachable magazines. The law also includes a long list of specific gun models by name, including AR-15s and AK-47 variants, which are popular among gun owners for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense.

If this bill became law, it would directly affect gun owners who currently possess these weapons or want to buy them in the future. People who own assault weapons before the law takes effect could keep them, but they couldn't sell them to anyone else without special registration. Gun manufacturers and dealers would be prohibited from making or selling these weapons. The bill also restricts certain accessories and parts designed to increase a gun's firing speed. Violating the ban could result in criminal penalties, though the bill doesn't specify the exact punishments.

The practical impact would be significant for the firearms industry and gun enthusiasts. Stores couldn't stock or sell the banned weapons, manufacturers would have to stop producing them, and the used market for these guns would essentially freeze since owners couldn't legally transfer them. However, people who already own these weapons could generally keep them for personal use. The bill would likely face legal challenges based on Second Amendment rights, and its effectiveness would depend on how strictly it's enforced and whether similar state laws already exist in your area.

Assault Weapons Ban of 2023

Cicilline, David N.

Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD). The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model. The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD: <ul> <li> importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments; </li> <li>importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and</li> <li> possession by a retired law enforcement officer. </li> </ul> The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties. The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD. Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture. The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.