Proposed law ties manufacturer fees to gun violence costs and creates fund for victims.
Trenton, NJ – A newly introduced bill in the New Jersey Assembly would require firearm manufacturers to obtain a state-issued license and pay annual fees tied to the public health costs of gun violence, with proceeds directed to compensate victims. The proposal, known as the “Responsibility in Firearms Sales Act,” outlines a new regulatory structure affecting manufacturers, retailers, and compensation programs statewide.
Key Points
- Bill would require firearm manufacturers to obtain annual state licenses to sell in New Jersey
- Fees could total hundreds of millions statewide, based on gun violence-related costs
- Revenue would fund compensation for victims of firearm injuries and deaths
The legislation, sponsored by Assemblywoman Ellen J. Park, would prohibit firearm manufacturers from selling or distributing products in New Jersey without a valid license issued by the Superintendent of State Police. Retail dealers would also be barred from selling firearms unless the manufacturer is properly licensed.
Under the bill, the total annual fees imposed on manufacturers would be calculated based on the estimated public health and financial costs of firearm injuries in the state. The first year would cap total fees at $866 million, with future adjustments tied to inflation. Individual manufacturers would pay a share based on market presence and could see adjustments based on how often their firearms are recovered in incidents involving injuries.
New fund would cover victim costs
All licensing fees and penalties collected under the bill would be deposited into a newly created Responsibility in Firearms Sales Fund. The fund would be administered by the Victims of Crime Compensation Office and used to reimburse victims and families for costs associated with firearm injuries or deaths.
Covered expenses would include medical care, mental health treatment, lost wages, funeral costs, rehabilitation services, and other direct financial impacts. The bill sets no cap on compensation amounts, though payments could be reduced proportionally if claims exceed available funds.
Victims would generally have up to three years to apply for compensation unless the injury results in permanent disability.
Enforcement and penalties outlined
The Attorney General would be authorized to investigate violations and bring enforcement actions. Manufacturers found in violation could face civil penalties of up to $1 million per month, while retailers could face penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.
The State Police would also be required to maintain a public list of licensed manufacturers to guide retailers. The bill specifies that retailers cannot claim lack of knowledge as a defense if a manufacturer is not properly licensed.
If enacted, the law would take effect on the first day of the third year following passage, allowing time for regulatory implementation.
