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Proposal to redefine gun components draws technical and legal concerns
Summary
A companion bill (HB5436) to expand the legal definition of "firearm" to include major components such as barrels, slides and cylinders drew sustained criticism on March 11: retailers and gunsmiths warned of impractical recordkeeping and maintenance burdens; advocates warned it could close a loophole used by traffickers if narrowly drafted.
Lede: Connecticut lawmakers also heard extended testimony on HB5436, a bill that would broaden the state definition of "firearm" to include certain major components and unfinished frames. Supporters say the change would help close avenues used to construct untraceable firearms; opponents say it would make routine maintenance, gunsmithing and lawful transfers difficult or impossible.
Nut graf: Retailers and firearms instructors said the proposal would create immediate operational problems for licensed gun dealers and gunsmiths because barrels, slides and other…
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