The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee reported favorably on S3249 on November 6, 2015. The bill, introduced by Sen. Loretta Weinberg, requires firearms wholesalers and retailers to sell personalized handguns, also known as “smart guns,” in addition to the other types of handguns they sell. A personalized handgun is designed so that it may only be fired by an authorized or recognized user.
Under the current law, three years after personalized handguns are available for retail purposes, it will be illegal for a firearms manufacturer or dealer to sell or transfer a handgun unless that handgun is a personalized handgun. The law was intended to encourage the development of smart gun technology, but the prohibition on other handguns has, in effect, restricted consumer access to personalized handguns.
Weinberg’s 2002 law required New Jersey firearms dealers to sell ONLY smart guns three years after they’re available on the market. The aim of the law was to prevent accidental shootings and “child proof” the weapons. While the state law boosted investment in developing smart gun technology, the guns are still not available anywhere in the country.
S3249/A4717 reported out of Assembly Committee on January 7, 2016 and was passed by both houses on January 11. It now awaits the Governor’s signature. No action by Tuesday would cause a pocket veto. Please call, 609-292-6000, or write Governor Christie TODAY and ensure this sensible gun legislation is enacted.