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HB 1287

Criminal Law - Firearm Crimes - Convertible Pistols

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 27 co-sponsors

Maryland bill criminalizes or enhances penalties for convertible pistols that can be modified into different firearm configurations, addressing regulatory gaps.

Hearing 3/05 at 3:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1287

Legislative bill overview

HB 1287 addresses criminal penalties related to convertible pistols in Maryland. The bill appears to regulate firearms that can be modified or converted between different configurations, likely establishing new criminal offenses or enhanced penalties for possession or use of such weapons. The specific legislative language would determine whether this creates new crimes, increases existing penalties, or establishes regulatory frameworks.

Why is this important

Convertible pistols—firearms designed to be modified into different operational states—represent a regulatory gap in many firearms laws. This bill attempts to address weapons that may circumvent existing restrictions by being configured as different firearm types. The outcome could affect how Maryland regulates ghost guns, modular weapons, and other firearms that blur legal categories.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: "Convertible pistol" lacks a universally accepted legal definition, creating ambiguity about which firearms are covered and risking unintended consequences for lawful gun owners
  • Constitutional challenges: Enhanced penalties specifically targeting convertible weapons may face Second Amendment challenges similar to other recent firearm regulations
  • Enforcement complexity: Distinguishing between lawfully modified firearms and illegal conversions presents practical challenges for law enforcement and prosecutors

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

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