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Bill

AB 383

Firearms: prohibition: minors.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laurie Davies

AB 383 prohibits minors adjudged for serious offenses from owning firearms until age 30, enhancing public safety and requiring strict relinquishment procedures.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 362, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 383

Summary of AB 383: Firearms Prohibition for Minors

Bill Number: AB 383
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 362, Statutes of 2025
Subject: Firearms, Minors, Prohibition

Purpose and Intent

AB 383 aims to strengthen existing laws regarding firearm possession by minors, specifically those adjudged as wards of the juvenile court due to serious or violent offenses. The bill seeks to ensure that these individuals are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms until they reach the age of 30.

Key Provisions

  • Extension of Prohibition: The bill expands the existing prohibition against firearm possession for juveniles adjudged as wards of the juvenile court for serious or violent offenses. Previously, this prohibition applied only to certain individuals; AB 383 extends it to all juveniles in similar circumstances.

  • Relinquishment Procedures: The bill mandates that juveniles who fall under this prohibition must follow the same procedures as adults for relinquishing firearms. This includes:

    • Court instructions for the defendant.
    • Assignment of a probation officer to investigate firearm possession.
    • Requirement for law enforcement to update the Automated Firearms System with any relinquished firearms.
    • Timely filing of a completed Prohibited Persons Relinquishment Form, with penalties for failure to comply.
  • Search Warrant Authority: AB 383 allows law enforcement to obtain search warrants for firearms owned or possessed by juveniles who are prohibited from firearm possession. This is applicable when a court finds that the juvenile has failed to relinquish the firearm as required.

  • Severability Clause: The bill includes a provision stating that if any part of the bill is found to be invalid, the remaining sections will still be enforceable.

Impact

  • Affected Individuals: The bill primarily affects juveniles adjudged as wards of the juvenile court for serious or violent offenses, as well as local probation departments and law enforcement agencies tasked with enforcing these regulations.

  • Local Program Mandate: By expanding the scope of firearm prohibition and the responsibilities of local agencies, the bill imposes a state-mandated local program, potentially requiring additional resources for implementation.

  • Reimbursement Provisions: The bill specifies that no reimbursement is required for certain mandates, but if the Commission on State Mandates determines that costs are incurred due to the bill, reimbursement will be provided according to existing statutory provisions.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill underwent multiple readings and amendments in both the Assembly and Senate before being approved by the Governor on October 6, 2025.
  • It was passed with a majority vote and is classified under the fiscal committee, indicating potential financial implications for local agencies.

Conclusion

AB 383 represents a significant step in regulating firearm possession among minors, particularly those with a history of serious offenses. By aligning the relinquishment procedures for juveniles with those for adults, the bill aims to enhance public safety and accountability.

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

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