After serving their time for a convicted crime, felons are legally not allowed to possess or own a firearm. This bill however, would make it possible for violent offenders to regain their right to own a firearm in their home or vehicle.
The bill, HB 166, was authored by Rep. Burnett and would make it lawful for any individual convicted of a non-violent felony to possess a firearm as well as a list of knives.
The bill reads:
It shall be lawful for any person who has been convicted of a nonviolent felony under the laws of this state, any other state, or of the United States to possess any firearm or any bowie knife, dirk knife, butcher knife, switchblade knife, metallic knuckles, blackjack, or any muffler or silencer in such person’s residence or motor vehicle. The provisions of this paragraph shall only apply if the person is able to prove that he or she resides in the home or owns the motor vehicle in which the firearm, bowie knife, dirk knife, butcher knife, switchblade knife, metallic knuckles, blackjack, muffler or silencer is located.
Any violations of the statute would still be subject to a fine and jail time. The bill was referred to the Judiciary B Committee for deliberation.
Sarah Ulmer
