HB 2022: unlawful discharge of firearms; exception
PRIME SPONSOR: Representative Lawrence, LD 23
BILL STATUS: Caucus / COW
JPS: DPA 6-3-0-0
Relating to the unlawful discharge of a firearm.
Provisions
1. Adds an exemption to the unlawful discharge of firearms statute that makes it legal to discharge a firearm into or within city limits using rat shot or snake shot if the pellets are:
a) 1.3 millimeters or less in diameter;
b) Loaded into a rimfire cartridge with a caliber under or equal to 22/100ths of an inch (.22 caliber). (Sec. 1)
2.
Removes
the current exemption for firing blanks. (Sec. 1) (JPS)
Current Law
A.R.S. § 13-3101 defines a firearm as any loaded or unloaded handgun, pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun or other weapon that will expel, is designed to expel or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. This definition does not include anything in permanently inoperable condition.
A.R.S. § 13-3107 (commonly referred to as "Shannon's Law") makes it illegal to discharge a firearm within or into city limits. A violation is a Class 6 felony (1 year/$150,000 plus surcharges). The section includes several exceptions if the discharge of the firearm is:
· On a supervised shooting range;
· To lawfully take wildlife during an open season as outlined in state law and AZGFD rules;
· In self-defense either from another person or against an animal attack;
· To control nuisance wildlife (with a permit from AZGFD);
· By permit from the police chief of the municipality;
· As required by an animal control officer;
· Using blanks;
· More than 1 mile from an occupied structure.
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Fifty-third Legislature HB2022
First Regular Session Version 2: Caucus / COW
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