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HB 609

relative to the general court's authority over the sale, purchase, ownership, use, possession, transportation, licensing, permitting, taxation, and other matter pertaining to firearms, stun guns, Tasers, pepper spray devices, knives and other self-defense tools.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cy Aures and 2 co-sponsors

Bill grants New Hampshire legislature broad power to regulate firearms, self-defense tools through licensing, permitting, taxation, and ownership restrictions.

Lay HB609 on Table (Rep. Wilhelm): MA RC 182-160 06/04/2026 HJ 15
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Bill Summary · HB 609

Legislative bill overview

HB 609 would grant New Hampshire's General Court broad legislative authority over firearms, stun guns, Tasers, pepper spray, knives, and other self-defense tools—covering sales, purchases, ownership, use, possession, transportation, licensing, permitting, and taxation. This represents a significant expansion of state legislative power in this regulatory domain, reversing or clarifying existing constitutional or statutory limitations on such authority.

Why is this important

New Hampshire has traditionally maintained relatively permissive firearms laws with minimal licensing requirements. This bill would explicitly empower the legislature to create comprehensive regulatory frameworks for weapons and self-defense tools, potentially enabling future restrictions on ownership, carry, sales, and use. The outcome directly affects public safety policy, individual rights, and law enforcement capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Opponents argue this conflicts with Second Amendment protections and New Hampshire constitutional provisions protecting individual rights to bear arms for self-defense
  • Scope creep: Critics worry explicit legislative authority over "all matters pertaining to" these items enables restrictive regulations beyond current practice, while supporters see it as necessary clarification for coherent regulation
  • Local vs. state control: The bill's focus on General Court authority may preempt local ordinances or create tension between state and municipal regulatory frameworks

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

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