Vainieri Huttle, Jasey & Swain Bill Closing Registration Loophole for Gun Owners Who Move to New Jersey Passes Full Assembly

(TRENTON) – Aiming to close a loophole in the state’s gun registration system, a bill sponsored by Assembly Democrats Valerie Vainieri Huttle, Mila Jasey and Lisa Swain would require new residents to register firearms that they legally obtained in another state upon moving to New Jersey. The measure, which is part of a larger package of gun reform bills, passed the full Assembly Monday by a vote of 47-26-3.

“Anyone who chooses to live in our state should be subject to the same requirements as current residents – especially when it comes to the safety of their families, friends and neighbors,” said Assemblywoman Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen). “Our firearm registration system fosters accountability by discouraging the illegal sale and use of dangerous weapons. It is time for New Jersey to close the loophole that allows new residents to own any gun without registering it here.”

Under the measure (A-3686), anyone who brings a legally-obtained firearm with them when they move to New Jersey would have 60 days to obtain a firearm purchaser identification card (FPIC) and register their weapon with municipal or State law enforcement. The registration paperwork would include details such as their name and address, as well as the make, model and serial number of the gun.

“Just as residents are required to register their vehicles with New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission when they first move here, gun owners would be held to the same standards,” said Assemblywoman Jasey (D-Essex, Morris). “This commonsense legislation will ensure that every legally-obtained gun is registered in our state to promote greater safety in our communities.”

Under current law, anyone who purchases a firearm in New Jersey must display their FPIC, which confirms the person meets the qualifications to purchase a gun in our state.

“Firearm registration not only promotes responsible gun ownership, but helps protect first responders by alerting them to the possible presence of a firearm before they arrive at the scene of an emergency,” said Assemblywoman Swain (D-Bergen, Passaic). “These benefits cannot be fully realized unless every legal gun owner participates in our registration system, which is why this measure is so critical to ensuring the safety of residents throughout our state.”

The legislation now heads to the Senate.