Cessation of SB3196, marking a significant victory for Second Amendment

News Release from HIFICO, April 5, 2024

Honolulu, HI – April 5th 2024 – The Hawaii Firearms Coalition, a leading advocate for the rights of gun owners in Hawaii, today announced the cessation of SB3196, marking a significant victory for Second Amendment proponents across the state. SB3196, which sought to impose further restrictions on firearms possession and use, will not move forward in the legislative process, effectively rendering the bill dead for the current legislative session.

The Hawaii Firearms Coalition, alongside its members and supporters, has been at the forefront of opposing SB3196. The coalition argued that the bill's provisions were overly restrictive, infringing on the constitutional rights of Hawaii’s law-abiding citizens without offering any benefits to public safety.

Through concerted efforts, including public awareness campaigns, testimonies before the legislature, and mobilizing public support, the Coalition has successfully highlighted the bill's flaws and its potential to unjustly penalize responsible gun owners.

“The halting of SB3196 is a testament to the power of civic engagement and the importance of safeguarding our constitutional rights,” said Andrew Namiki Roberts, a Director for Hawaii Firearms Coalition. “This outcome demonstrates that the voices of Hawaii’s citizens and the principles of our Constitution are paramount. We remain committed to ensuring that any proposed legislation respects the rights of individuals."

The Hawaii Firearms Coalition extends its gratitude to everyone who stood in opposition to SB3196. The Coalition acknowledges the efforts of gun owners, enthusiasts, and constitutional advocates who participated in the process, proving that community action is a pivotal force in the preservation of our rights.

While celebrating this victory, the Hawaii Firearms Coalition remains vigilant, prepared to act against any future proposals that may seek to undermine the Second Amendment rights of Hawaii's residents. The Coalition will continue to work towards promoting responsible gun ownership, education, and legislation that respects the rights and freedoms of all.

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SB3196 just passed the Senate Committee

From HiFiCo, Feb 27, 2024

So, SB3196 just passed the Senate Committee.

While this, in and of itself, is bad news, SIGNIFICANT changes were made to the bill before it was passed.

We need to wait to see the exact language of the changes made, but for now, these are the general details we know at this time:

-The assault rifle and assault shotgun language will be removed

-The magazine capacity will be changed from 10 to 20 rounds

-.50 cal ban was left in place

-assault pistol changes left in place

To everyone that submitted a testimony, called, and emailed the Senators, and showed up at any of the hearings so far, thank you for doing your part! Your effort IS making a difference, but the fight is not over! We have more opportunity to stop this bill in its entirety as it now makes its way over to the House Committee!

Stay tuned for updates and SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! this info!

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UPDATE from Hawaii Firearms Coalition

March 2, 2024

Despite previous assurances to the contrary, it has emerged that the language concerning assault rifles and shotguns has not been fully removed from the bill, leading to concerns of deception. While the explicit ban on assault rifles was omitted, definitions related to these firearms remain in the legislation, meaning an indirect ban is still included in the bill

The law continues to forbid the sale, transfer, or importation of certain attachments, with a statement specifying: "Effective July 8, 2024, barring exceptions outlined in section 134-8 (e), individuals are prohibited from importing or facilitating the import of a .50 caliber rifle or an assault weapon attachment into the state. Additionally, from July 8, 2024, it will be illegal to sell or transfer any .50 caliber rifle or assault weapon attachment within the state."

This clause essentially upholds the ban on assault rifles as it was before the amendment. The prohibition on transferring these particular items means that firearms equipped with such attachments are also subject to the same restrictions.

The amended bill currently includes the following provisions:

--A ban on the import, sale, and transfer of assault weapon attachments (effectively continues the ban on assault rifles. This includes .22 caliber rifles, as they share attachments with centerfire rifles and could be interchanged)

--Modification of the ban on assault pistols from two features to one (adding more features and, no grandfathering)

--A prohibition on pistols with a fixed magazine capacity exceeding 10 rounds. (no grandfathering)

A ban on pistols by make/model, as listed in the bill. (no grandfathering)

--A ban on non-pistol magazines capable of holding more than 20 rounds(no grandfathering

--A ban on .50 caliber firearms, (with provisions for grandfathering)

--Ban on traveling with any of the above-mentioned firearms)

Despite the seemingly shorter list of regulated items, the ban on widely owned rifles remains effective.

The full Senate is scheduled to vote on this bill on March 5th.

Express your opposition to this bill and the deceptive tactics employed to advance it by emailing all senators simultaneously at: sens@capitol.hawaii.gov. This email address distributes your message to every senator.

Additionally, it is crucial to contact your own senators directly (via phone) to ensure they are aware of the situation and to urge them to oppose this bill on your behalf.

Continue your hard work, we can STOP this bill.

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LINK: Senate Bill 3196

KHON: Hawaii lawmakers looking to ban .50 caliber guns, ammunition 

CB: Assault Rifles And Shotguns Would Still Be Allowed In Hawaii Under Amended Bill