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Bill

SB 160

Public Safety - Licensed Firearms Dealers - Notification Regarding Compromising Events

2026 Regular Session

Maryland bill requiring firearms dealers to report security breaches to authorities to prevent theft and illegal gun trafficking.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 86
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 160

Legislative bill overview

SB 160 requires licensed firearms dealers in Maryland to notify relevant authorities and potentially customers when security features at their facilities are compromised or breached. The bill aims to enhance public safety by ensuring prompt reporting of incidents that could enable theft or unauthorized access to firearms inventory.

Why is this important

Firearms theft from licensed dealers can directly supply weapons to individuals prohibited from legal ownership, contributing to illegal gun circulation. Timely notifications allow law enforcement to investigate breaches, recover stolen inventory, and identify security vulnerabilities across the dealer network.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden: Small firearms dealers may argue notification requirements create administrative costs and operational disruptions without proportional public safety gains
  • Definition clarity: The bill's scope depends on how "compromise of security features" is defined—ambiguous language could create disputes over what triggers notification obligations
  • Customer notification scope: Questions exist about whether individual customer notification (beyond law enforcement) is necessary, proportionate, and feasible given inventory sizes

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

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