Details of the Proposed Legislation

Passed with notable division, the bill achieved a tally of 100-46, mainly along party lines. Notably, five Republicans voted in favor, while five moderate Democrats opposed it. The legislation will now progress to the Senate for review.

An Overview of the Bill’s Provisions

Central to House Bill 7042 is a provision permitting legal action against gun manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. These parties could be held liable if they do not implement adequate measures to prevent their products from reaching individuals barred from ownership.

Rep. Steve Stafstrom (D-Bridgeport), who co-chairs the Judiciary Committee, asserted that this bill seeks to amend a perceived loophole in the 2005 Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). According to Stafstrom, the bill aims to offer civil recourse for victims, referencing the well-known Sandy Hook case that concluded with a substantial settlement against Remington.

Opposition Perspectives

Critics are vocal about their concerns regarding the bill’s implications. House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford) described it as “a trial lawyer’s dream,” suggesting it primarily benefits legal professionals without enhancing public safety.

Moreover, Rep. Craig Fishbein (R-Wallingford) voiced apprehension over the perceived double standard, comparing litigation aimed at the firearms industry to holding car manufacturers accountable for accidents caused by drivers under the influence. Rep. Doug Dubitsky (R-Chaplin) expressed worries about the potential infringement on constitutional rights, stating that relentless lawsuits could marginalize gun manufacturers and thus endanger lawful ownership.

Extended Definitions and Impacts

The term “firearm industry member” is broadly defined within the bill, encompassing everyone involved in the manufacture, distribution, marketing, or sale of guns and related products. However, private sales between individuals are exempt from this legislation.

“We are splitting hairs,” said Dubitsky, voicing concerns over the vague wording and potential legal implications.

Permit Regulations Tightened

In an additional change, House Bill 7042 modifies regulations about who can obtain a pistol permit in Connecticut. Previously, certain misdemeanor convictions in other states did not affect one’s ability to secure a permit in Connecticut. This bill aligns the criteria, blocking applicants with specific out-of-state misdemeanors within the past eight years.

Governor Ned Lamont remarked that closing this loophole “doesn’t make much sense” from a regulatory standpoint.

Concerns of Increased Regulation

Gun retailers have raised alarms about the potential financial ramifications of the bill. Edward Rando, the owner of Ron’s Guns, reported a dramatic rise in liability insurance over the years, suggesting that the new legislation could exacerbate these costs and threaten smaller businesses.

State Rep. Greg Howard (R) captured the sentiment within the House, questioning, “When are we going to blame the criminals?”