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GM 1123

Informing the Legislature that on April 22, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB995 (ACT 023).

2025 Regular Session

Act 023 mandates annual reporting on firearm license applications in Hawaii, enhancing transparency and addressing disparities in the licensing process for fairness.

Received.
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Bill Summary · GM 1123

Summary of Bill GM 1123: Informing the Legislature of Act 023

Bill Number: GM 1123
Title: Informing the Legislature that on April 22, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB995 (ACT 023)
Status: Received
Introduced: April 23, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 023

Purpose and Intent

Bill GM 1123 serves as a formal notification to the Legislature of the State of Hawaii regarding the signing of House Bill 995 into law by Governor Josh Green on April 22, 2025. This notification is part of the legislative process to ensure transparency and communication between the executive and legislative branches.

Key Provisions of Act 023

Act 023, which is the content of HB 995, introduces significant amendments to Section 134-9.6 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes concerning firearms reporting. The key provisions include:

  1. Annual Reporting Requirements:

    • The Department of the Attorney General is mandated to publish an annual report on its publicly available website. This report will include:
      • The number of licenses to carry firearms that were applied for, issued, revoked, and denied, categorized by age, gender, race, and county of residence.
      • Specific reasons for each revocation and denial.
      • An analysis of denials based on applicants' failure to meet established standards, along with recommendations to address any disparities in denial rates by age, gender, or race.
      • The number of appeals filed and the number of appeals granted.
      • The number of violations of Section 134-9.1.

  2. Data Submission by County Police Chiefs:

    • Each county's chief of police is required to provide the necessary data to the Department of the Attorney General by March 31 of each year to facilitate the completion of the report.

  3. Effective Date:

    • The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.

Impact of the Bill

The enactment of Act 023 is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in the issuance of firearm carry licenses in Hawaii. By requiring detailed reporting and analysis, the law aims to identify and address potential disparities in the licensing process, thereby promoting fairness and equity.

Who is Affected?

  • Applicants for Firearm Licenses: Individuals applying for licenses will be subject to the new reporting requirements, which may influence the processing of their applications.
  • Law Enforcement Agencies: County police departments will need to comply with the new data reporting requirements, necessitating adjustments to their record-keeping and reporting practices.
  • The Public: Increased transparency regarding firearm licensing may inform public discussions and policy considerations related to gun control and safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • The bill was signed into law on April 22, 2025.
    • GM 1123 was introduced to the Legislature on April 23, 2025, following the signing of Act 023.

This summary provides an overview of Bill GM 1123 and its associated Act 023, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders in Hawaii.

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

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