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SB 334

Criminal Law - Firearm Crimes - Machine Gun Convertible Pistols

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sara Love and 2 co-sponsors

Maryland bill criminalizes machine gun conversion devices for pistols to combat illegal fully-automatic weapon creation in high-crime areas.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 771
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 334

Legislative bill overview

SB 334 proposes to expand Maryland's criminal laws regarding machine gun conversion devices, specifically targeting devices that convert standard pistols into fully automatic weapons. The bill aims to establish or strengthen penalties for the manufacture, possession, sale, or distribution of such conversion devices, which are sometimes referred to as "auto sears" or "switches."

Why is this important

Machine gun conversion devices have become a growing enforcement concern in many jurisdictions, as they allow individuals to illegally convert readily available semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons without traditional manufacturing. Maryland law enforcement and policymakers view this as a public safety threat linked to increased gun violence in urban areas, particularly affecting communities already experiencing high rates of gun crime.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment interpretation: Gun rights advocates may argue the bill constitutes an overreach on constitutional rights, particularly regarding possession of accessory devices rather than firearms themselves
  • Manufacturing vs. possession distinctions: Debate may arise over whether penalties should differ significantly between manufacturing devices versus possessing them, and what constitutes intent
  • Effectiveness and enforcement challenges: Questions about whether criminalizing these devices effectively prevents illegal gun modifications when the underlying semi-automatic firearms remain legal and widely available

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

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