This week, Congressman Chris Jacobs (D-NY) introduced the Federal Assault Weapons Licensing Act, a bill that would establish a licensing system for prospective purchasers of modern sporting rifles (MSR).
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Per the legislation, one would need to take a mandatory safety course, pass an FBI background check, submit fingerprints and provide proof of identity as part of the licensing process.
The license would need to be renewed every five years.
Anyone who already owns an MSR would be grandfathered in, however, if they wanted to buy an additional MSR they would need a license.
“My legislation is common sense and provides a straightforward licensing process to ensure those who are purchasing and taking ownership of assault weapons are responsible, law-abiding Americans,” Jacobs said in a press release obtained by GunsAmerica.
“We can honor and protect our Second Amendment, while also ensuring that dangerous weapons do not fall into the wrong hands. We must do more to ensure the safety of our schools and communities, and I urge my colleagues to join me in sponsoring this legislation,” he added.
Police officers and military personnel would be exempt.
The bill also allows unlicensed individuals to shoot modern sporting rifles at a range or while hunting if the license holder supervises.
Unlicensed individuals may also use one in self-defense to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.
“While the overwhelming majority of Americans who own these weapons are law-abiding, responsible gun owners – the increasing trend of mass shootings with these weapons shows additional safeguards must be placed upon obtaining them,” said Jacobs.
“My bill will better ensure these guns do not fall into the wrong hands, while still protecting Americans’ ability to exercise their Second Amendment rights,” he continued.
