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HB 80

Law enforcement agencies; option to destroy or sell certain firearms; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Omari Crawford and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 80 allows Georgia law enforcement to sell or destroy unneeded firearms, enhancing public safety and reducing storage costs while supporting licensed dealers.

House Second Readers
#civilpractice #crimesandoffenses(criminalcode) #criminalprocedure #localgovernment #lawenforcementofficersandagencies
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 80

Summary of House Bill 80

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 80
  • Title: Law enforcement agencies; option to destroy or sell certain firearms; provide
  • Status: House Second Readers
  • Introduced: January 16, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 80 aims to amend existing laws regarding the disposition of firearms that are in the custody of law enforcement agencies in Georgia. The bill provides law enforcement agencies with the option to either destroy or sell certain firearms that are no longer needed for evidentiary purposes. This legislation seeks to streamline the process for handling firearms that have been seized or are unclaimed, thereby addressing issues related to public safety and resource management.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendment to Disposition Procedures:

    • The bill revises Code Section 17-5-52, allowing law enforcement agencies to return, sell, or destroy firearms within one year after they are no longer needed for evidence.
    • If a firearm is subject to forfeiture, civil forfeiture proceedings must be initiated within 60 days of a final judgment.

  2. Handling of Unclaimed Firearms:

    • Unclaimed firearms may be destroyed or sold, with specific provisions for firearms deemed unsafe due to wear, damage, or legal restrictions.
    • Firearms can be sold at public auctions to licensed firearms collectors, dealers, importers, or manufacturers, with auctions required to occur at least once every 12 months if there are five or more saleable firearms.

  3. Transfer of Unsafe Firearms:

    • Firearms certified as unsafe may be transferred to forensic laboratories for training or experimental purposes or destroyed.

  4. Repeal of Conflicting Laws:

    • The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with its provisions.

Impact

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: The bill provides law enforcement agencies with greater flexibility in managing firearms that are no longer needed for evidence, potentially reducing storage costs and improving public safety.
  • Public Safety: By allowing the destruction or sale of unclaimed and unsafe firearms, the bill aims to minimize the risk of these firearms being misused or causing harm.
  • Licensed Firearms Dealers: The legislation creates opportunities for licensed dealers to acquire firearms through public auctions, thereby supporting the regulated firearms market.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 16, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • January 17, 2025: First reading in the House.
  • January 27, 2025: Bill moved to House Second Readers for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 80, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on law enforcement and public safety in Georgia.

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

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