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HB 418

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 11 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO FIREARMS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Mara Gorman and 6 co-sponsors

HB 418 would amend Delaware Title 11 firearms laws to tighten or modify regulations on purchasing, possession, storage, and licensing requirements.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 15 YES 6 NO
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 418

Overview

HB 418 (Session 153, Delaware) is a proposed act to amend Title 11 of the Delaware Code as it relates to firearms. The bill was introduced and assigned to the Judiciary Committee in the House on May 12, 2026. It has four co-sponsors: Mara Gorman, Kendra Johnson, Eric Morrison, and Laura Sturgeon.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill aims to modify existing Delaware firearm laws within Title 11. While the exact text is not provided here, the act is described as an amendment intended to address, update, or expand certain regulatory provisions concerning firearms in the state.
  • As a Judiciary Committee measure, the proposals are likely to involve legal standards, enforcement mechanisms, or accessibility/controls related to firearms.

Key Provisions and Changes (Expected Types)

Note: Without the full text, the following are common categories to expect in a firearm-related Title 11 amendment. The summary highlights potential areas often addressed in similar bills. The precise provisions should be confirmed by reviewing the bill’s text once available.

  • Public safety and background checks

    • Expansion or modification of required background checks for firearm purchases or transfers.
    • Clarifications on who must undergo checks (e.g., private sales, gunsmiths, or exemptions).

  • Restrictions on possession and eligibility

    • New or heightened prohibitions for certain individuals (e.g., convicted felons, those subject to protection orders, individuals with certain mental health adjudications).
    • Restrictions related to “straw purchases” or possession near sensitive locations.

  • Gun safety measures

    • Requirements for safe storage, safe handling, or secure transport.
    • Potential responsibilities for gun owners to prevent unauthorized access.

  • Registration, licensing, or permitting

    • Introduction or modification of firearm licensing or registration requirements.
    • Fees, timelines, and renewal processes if licensing is included.

  • Firearm definitions and classifications

    • Clarifications or changes to how firearms or specific types (e.g., handguns, long guns) are defined.
    • Addressing firearm components or accessories (e.g., magazines, suppressors) if included.

  • Enforcement and penalties

    • Penalty levels for violations (fines, imprisonment terms), and enforcement authorities or compliance timelines.
    • Provisions related to forfeiture or seizure of firearms in certain circumstances.

  • Exceptions and exemptions

    • Specific exemptions (e.g., for law enforcement, military, or certain activities) and related conditions.

  • Administrative and procedural changes

    • Changes to regulatory processes, reporting requirements, or administrative orders related to firearms.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Gun owners and prospective buyers in Delaware, particularly those subject to background checks, licensing, or storage requirements.
  • Federally or state-regulated entities involved in firearms commerce or transfers (dealers, collectors, and private sellers).
  • Law enforcement and court systems responsible for enforcing firearm laws and handling related penalties.
  • Individuals subject to protective orders, mental health adjudications, or felony convictions who may face new or enhanced restrictions.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and assignment: HB 418 was introduced and assigned to the House Judiciary Committee on May 12, 2026.
  • Next steps: The bill would proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and votes in the House, followed by consideration by the Senate (if it passes the House). The timeline depends on committee action, floor votes, and any negotiations between chambers.

Additional Notes

  • Specific language, section-by-section changes, and any fiscal implications (costs, funding for enforcement, or administrative costs) will be clearer once the bill text is released and analyzed.
  • Readers seeking a precise understanding should review the official bill text and fiscal notes once available, as well as any committee hearings and amendments.

If you’d like, I can update this summary with exact provisions once the bill text is published or provide a comparative analysis against current Delaware firearms statutes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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