firearm sales; transfers; background checks

HB 2420 requires private firearm sales or transfers between non-licensed individuals to occur through a licensed firearms dealer who conducts a background check. This directly affects private sellers and buyers who are not licensed dealers, mandating they use a dealer to complete the transaction and verify the buyer’s eligibility under federal and state law. Key provisions include the dealer performing a background check (via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System), charging a $20 fee for this service, and prohibiting transfers if the buyer is legally barred from owning firearms. Exceptions cover law enforcement, gunsmiths, temporary transfers for safety, family gifts, antique firearms, and specific recreational loans, but violations carry a class 5 felony penalty.