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Bill

Bill

S 7258

Establishes class A-I felony of criminal use of a firearm for possessing a deadly weapon or displaying a gun during the commission of a class A or violent felony; repealer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Lanza

Bill S 7258 creates a new Class A-I felony for using firearms during serious crimes, imposing harsher penalties to deter gun-related violence and enhance public safety.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 7258

Summary of Bill S 7258

Overview

Bill S 7258 aims to establish a new class of felony, specifically a class A-I felony, for individuals who engage in the criminal use of a firearm. This legislation targets those who possess a deadly weapon or display a gun while committing a class A felony or any violent felony. The bill also includes a provision for the repeal of existing laws that may conflict with this new classification.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Bill S 7258 is to enhance public safety by imposing stricter penalties on individuals who use firearms during the commission of serious crimes. By categorizing the criminal use of a firearm in this manner, the bill seeks to deter violent crime and reduce the incidence of gun-related offenses.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of Class A-I Felony: The bill creates a new category of felony (class A-I) specifically for the criminal use of firearms during the commission of serious crimes.
  • Definition of Offenses: The legislation defines the circumstances under which possessing a deadly weapon or displaying a gun would elevate the crime to a class A-I felony.
  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws: The bill includes provisions to repeal any existing laws that may conflict with the new classification, streamlining the legal framework surrounding firearm-related offenses.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals: The bill primarily affects individuals who commit class A felonies or violent felonies while armed with a firearm. Those found guilty under this new classification would face significantly harsher penalties.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill may impact law enforcement agencies by providing them with clearer guidelines on how to charge individuals involved in firearm-related offenses.
  • Judicial System: Courts will need to adapt to the new felony classification, which may affect sentencing guidelines and case processing.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on April 7, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of now, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is part of a broader legislative effort, with several related bills from prior sessions (S 3479, S 4161, S 5518, S 6191, S 1783, S 5614, S 4657) that may address similar issues regarding firearms and violent crime.

Conclusion

Bill S 7258 represents a significant legislative effort to address the intersection of firearms and violent crime by establishing stricter penalties for offenders. As it moves through the legislative process, its implications for public safety and the legal system will be closely monitored.

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

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