Delegate Shaneka Henson (D-30A) has pre-filed House Bill 175 (HB175) which will affect ammunition sales and transfers. One of the purposes of this bill is to require sellers of ammunition to confirm identity of purchasers of ammunition and to ensure that these purchasers are not prohibited individuals from owning or possessing firearms.
This bill will require ammunition sellers to conduct a NICS background check as well as requiring the ammunition sellers to create an electronic record of the sale to include information such as the drivers’ license number, the brand, type and amount of ammunition sold, the purchasers’ residential address, date of birth and telephone number.
This information which is to be obtained by the ammunition seller must be retained in an electronic database which is maintained by the Maryland State Police and will be fully accessible to law enforcement agencies.
This bill may have the practical effect of ending online sales of ammunition and further restrict the sale of ammunition from out-of-state sellers. Lastly, as many shooting sport enthusiasts purchase large quantities of ammunition, will these purchases trigger visits from law enforcement or worse, such as an Extreme Risk Protective Order (Red Flag)?
Hershon Legal will continue to monitor this legislation and will provide updates as they develop.
