Criminal Justice (Firearms)

SB 503 would remove Kansas state criminal penalties for possessing firearm suppressors (devices that reduce gunfire noise) and for having firearms with specific barrel lengths. Currently, Kansas law makes it a felony to possess suppressors (under K.S.A. 21-6301(a)(4)) and prohibits shotguns with barrels under 18 inches or firearms with barrels under 12 inches (under K.S.A. 21-6301(a)(5) and (a)(14)). The bill amends these sections to eliminate those criminal prohibitions, meaning possession would no longer be a state-level crime. This change would directly affect firearm owners who currently face criminal charges for these items under Kansas law, though federal regulations (like NFA registration) would still apply. The bill does not alter federal law or create new firearm rights.

HB 2198 creates a new court order called a "gun violence restraining order" that allows judges to prohibit certain individuals from possessing firearms if they pose a significant risk of harming themselves or others. This order can be requested by specific people, including current or former spouses, family members, individuals in a dating relationship, or those living in the same household, who must provide evidence of the risk. Courts must find "reasonable cause" to believe the person is a threat - considering past violence, threats, or other relevant facts - before issuing the order. The order prevents the restrained individual from acquiring or possessing firearms and may be issued without notifying them if immediate action is needed to prevent harm.