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Bill

Bill

SB 81

prohibit the use of a firearms code for transactions involving firearms, accessories, components, and ammunition and to provide a civil penalty therefor.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Aaron Aylward and 14 co-sponsors

South Dakota prohibits use of standardized firearms transaction codes, imposing civil penalties to prevent uniform classification of gun sales and accessories.

Signed by the Governor on 2025-02-25 S.J. 367
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Bill Summary · SB 81

Legislative bill overview

SB 81 prohibits South Dakota from using a standardized "firearms code" system for processing transactions involving firearms, accessories, components, and ammunition. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations of this prohibition, effectively blocking implementation of a uniform coding classification system for gun-related commercial transactions.

Why is this important

This bill addresses concerns about potential federal tracking or standardization of firearm sales through industry codes. Proponents view it as protecting gun owners' privacy and preventing what they see as a backdoor regulatory mechanism, while opponents might argue it creates unnecessary friction in legitimate commercial and regulatory processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Commerce Efficiency: The bill prioritizes transaction privacy concerns over streamlined inventory and sales tracking systems that retailers and regulators use for legitimate purposes
  • Undefined "Firearms Code": The bill doesn't specify which coding system is prohibited, creating potential ambiguity about what transactions are actually affected or how businesses should comply
  • Federal-State Coordination: The prohibition could complicate compliance with federal firearms regulations that may rely on standardized coding for background checks or other lawful administrative purposes

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

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