Georgia General Assembly introduces Gun Safe Act of 2025 for firearm regulations

House Bill 601, introduced in the Georgia House Legislature on February 24, 2025, aims to enhance firearm safety and regulation within the state. Titled the "Georgia Gun Safe Act of 2025," the bill proposes several key provisions designed to address gun violence and promote responsible firearm ownership.

One of the primary objectives of House Bill 601 is the establishment of a Georgia Firearms Registry, which would require the registration of all firearm sales and transfers occurring after a specified date. This registry is intended to improve tracking of firearms and enhance accountability among gun owners. Additionally, the bill mandates that all transfers or purchases of firearms at gun shows be subject to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, ensuring that background checks are consistently applied.

The legislation also introduces requirements for safe storage of firearms. It stipulates that firearms must be securely stored in vehicles and when the owner is not present at their premises. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for safe storage practices to prevent access by children, including the separate storage of ammunition from firearms.

House Bill 601 includes provisions aimed at restricting access to firearms for certain age groups. It prohibits the sale of firearms to individuals under the age of 21 and imposes a five-day waiting period for transactions involving individuals under the age of 27. The bill also places a temporary ban on the sale or transfer of assault weapons by certain dealers.

The bill has sparked notable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that these measures are necessary to reduce gun violence and enhance public safety, while opponents raise concerns about potential infringements on Second Amendment rights and the effectiveness of such regulations.

The implications of House Bill 601 are significant, as it seeks to balance the rights of gun owners with the need for increased safety measures. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could lead to a decrease in gun-related incidents, but it may also face legal challenges from those who view it as an overreach of government authority.

As the legislative process unfolds, House Bill 601 will likely continue to be a focal point of discussion in Georgia, reflecting the ongoing national conversation about gun control and public safety. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments before it can be voted on by the full legislature.