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Panel adopts amendment requiring firearm dealers to notify state when security features are compromised
Summary
An amendment clarifying when licensed firearm dealers must notify the state—after burglary/theft of firearms or a compromise of security features—passed and the committee approved House Bill 284 as amended.
The Judiciary Committee adopted an amendment to House Bill 284 clarifying licensed firearm-dealer notification obligations when a burglary, theft, robbery or other compromise affects firearms, ammunition or security features on dealer premises. Committee staff said the amendment was drafted with input from Maryland State Police, the NRA and dealers’ representatives and that it clarifies the circumstances that trigger a dealer’s notice requirement to the secretary.
“This amendment...clarifies when a licensed dealer is required to notify the secretary of a burglary, attempted burglary, robbery, or a theft of a firearm or ammunition on the premises,” Holly explained, adding the amendment defines a security-feature compromise (camera failure, alarm failure, physical barrier failure) and introduces a knowledge requirement for the dealer.
Members debated whether the notice should generate a receipt or logging mechanism; staff said the secretary will set guidelines and that dealers are expected to use methods that can be substantiated (email, text) within 24 hours. The committee adopted the amendment and then voted to pass HB 284 as amended.
