HB 4931
Relating to the protection of firearm owner privacy and prohibition of registries
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, the Protection of Firearm Owner Privacy and Prohibition of Registries Act, prohibits West Virginia from creating or maintaining any databases or registries of firearms or firearm owners. It aims to safeguard firearm owner privacy and aligns with the Second Amendment and existing federal laws. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations and empowers the Attorney General to enforce compliance, with penalties deposited into a fund to defend Second Amendment rights.
Key provisions
- Prohibits West Virginia from creating or maintaining firearm registries.
- Establishes civil penalties of $10,000 to $100,000 for violations.
- Authorizes the Attorney General to investigate and enforce compliance.
- Creates the West Virginia Second Amendment Defense Fund to support legal actions.
- Applies the prohibition to both physical and electronic records.
- Provides standing to citizens to sue for damages and injunctive relief.
- Defines violations as separate offenses.
- Specifies an immediate effective date upon passage.
Who is affected
- Firearm Owners
- State and Federal Government Agencies
- Federal Contractors
- Firearms Dealers
- West Virginia Residents
Notable changes
- Specifically prohibits the creation and maintenance of firearm registries within West Virginia.
- Reinforces the state's commitment to upholding Second Amendment rights.
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours