Starting January 1st, 2022, law-abiding citizens will have the option of owning tasers and stun guns.

From HIFICO, July 8, 2021

In 2018, Hawaii Firearms Coalition filed a lawsuit against the State of Hawaii(1), alleging that it's ban on the private possession and carrying of tasers in the state was unconstitutional.

Today, HB891 passed into law. HB891(2), written by the Attorney General's office, makes tasers and other electric weapons legal in the state.

The Governor did not sign the law but did not veto it either. This means the bill becomes law without his signature. This was expected. It was clear throughout the session that due to HIFICO's lawsuit, the legislators were being forced to pass the bill.

Originally, legislators wanted to treat electric arms just like firearms, with background checks and waiting periods. However, the counties (who can barely keep up with firearms checks), showed concerns. Thus, the bill was modified to require a background check and a mandatory safety class conducted by the seller. Sellers will be required to take a state-authorized class and keep records of all sales.

The law also puts some restrictions on use:

"It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly or recklessly use an electric gun for any purpose except:

(1) Self-defense;

(2) Defense of another person; or

(3) Protection of property of the person or of another person."

Another restriction in the bill is a lengthy list of people who are prohibited from owning electric weapons, including: felons, fugitives, people guilty of a crime of violence, or the sale of an illegal drug.

The law goes into effect on January 1st, 2022. The current ban on possession is still in effect until that time. Therefore, don't go rushing out to buy one just yet.

Hawaii Firearms Coalition will continue forward with its lawsuit to the best of its ability. We will make sure that we can carry these arms for self-defense as well as owning them.

Want to support us in what we do? Become a member.

https://hificoshop.com/pages/membership

(1) https://www.guns.com/news/2018/04/05/federal-lawsuit-filed-over-hawaii-stun-gun-taser-ban

(2) https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2021/bills/HB891_CD1_.htm See less

HNN: Come January 1, it will be legal for private citizens in Hawaii to own a Taser