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H 1836

An Act to require liability insurance for gun ownership

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David Linsky

Massachusetts bill requiring gun owners to maintain liability insurance to legally possess firearms, shifting injury costs to insurers and owners.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1836

Legislative bill overview

H 1836 would require gun owners in Massachusetts to carry liability insurance as a condition of firearm ownership. The bill mandates that individuals maintain active insurance coverage to legally possess firearms, similar to auto insurance requirements for vehicle operation.

Why is this important

This proposal addresses gun violence and injury liability by creating financial accountability for gun owners. It could shift some costs of firearm-related injuries to insurers and owners rather than public health systems, while potentially incentivizing safer gun storage and handling practices through insurance underwriting standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Second Amendment advocates argue mandatory insurance creates an unconstitutional financial barrier to exercising gun rights, similar to challenged "poll tax" critiques
  • Implementation challenges: Questions arise about insurance market development, affordability for low-income owners, and whether insurers will write policies given litigation risks
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Unclear how authorities would verify compliance and what penalties apply to uninsured owners, particularly regarding existing gun collections
  • Insurance company liability: Insurers may face pressure to deny coverage or impose restrictive conditions, potentially making insurance unavailable or unaffordable in practice

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

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