Senate passes bill creating civil claims path for firearm‑industry conduct after marathon debate

Summary

After a daylong debate and more than a dozen failed amendments, the Connecticut Senate approved House Bill 7042, a package that creates a civil cause of action tied to certain industry conduct the bill’s backers say will improve accountability in firearms commerce; opponents warned of litigation and constitutional conflicts.

HARTFORD — After more than six hours of debate, the Connecticut Senate voted to pass House Bill 7042 on Thursday, a bill that sets out civil liability for certain conduct by members of the firearms industry.

Senator Douglas A. Winfield, the bill’s lead sponsor, told colleagues the measure “establishes requirements and restrictions on that industry” and would create a private right of action and a path for municipalities and the attorney general to seek redress where industry members fail to adopt ‘‘reasonable controls’’ to prevent sales and distribution that lead to harm. He moved acceptance of the committee’s favorable report and asked for passage.

Opponents pressed on constitutional and practical grounds. “I rise in opposition to this bill,” said Senator Jon Kissell, who called it “one of the most pernicious pieces of proposed legislation” he has seen and warned it would chill lawful activity. Senator Sampson, a…

Senate passes bill creating civil claims path for firearm‑industry conduct after marathon debate

Summary

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