ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

HB 2022: unlawful discharge of firearms; exception

PRIME SPONSOR: Representative Lawrence, LD 23

BILL STATUS: Caucus / COW

JPS: DPA 6-3-0-0

Abstract

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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