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HB 1317

Surrender of firearms for domestic violence crimes.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vernon Smith

Indiana bill authorizes firearm surrender from domestic violence offenders to reduce intimate partner homicides and enhance public safety in abuse cases.

First reading: referred to Committee on Courts and Criminal Code
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Bill Summary · HB 1317

Legislative bill overview

HB 1317 would establish procedures for law enforcement to temporarily or permanently surrender firearms from individuals convicted of or subject to protective orders related to domestic violence crimes in Indiana. The bill creates a legal mechanism to remove guns from domestic violence offenders as a public safety measure.

Why is this important

Domestic violence is a significant risk factor for firearm homicides, with studies showing that abusers with access to guns are five times more likely to kill their intimate partners. This type of legislation aims to reduce intimate partner femicides and other domestic violence-related deaths by restricting weapon access during high-risk situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates may argue that firearm surrender requirements constitute an unconstitutional deprivation of property and constitutional rights without sufficient due process protections
  • Implementation and enforcement questions: Ambiguity about which specific domestic violence convictions trigger surrender, how temporary vs. permanent surrender is determined, and whether due process hearing requirements are adequately specified
  • Scope and definition disputes: Disagreement over whether the bill applies to all domestic violence offenders, only those with convictions, those under restraining orders, or some combination—affecting the number of people impacted

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

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