Maryland Firearm Laws :: American Gun Owners Alliance

FOR the purpose of establishing a certain exception to the prohibition against carrying a deadly weapon on public school property;

Making it a misdemeanor to possess or use certain firearm ammunition during and in relation to the commission of a certain crime of violence;

Altering the authorization for a person to wear, carry, or transport a handgun to be within certain limitations;

Designating certain firearms as assault weapons;

Prohibiting, with certain exceptions, a person from transporting an assault weapon into the State or possessing, selling, offering to sell, transferring, purchasing, or receiving an assault weapon;

Providing that certain prohibitions relating to certain assault weapons and detachable magazines do not apply to certain persons under certain circumstances;

Authorizing a person to transport certain assault weapons under certain circumstances;

Authorizing certain persons to continue to possess assault long guns or copycat weapons under certain circumstances;

Altering the maximum capacity of rounds of ammunition allowable to be manufactured, sold, offered for sale, purchased, received, or transferred for a firearm, with certain exceptions;

Making it a misdemeanor to use an assault long gun or a copycat weapon or a magazine that exceeds a certain maximum capacity of rounds of ammunition in the commission of a felony or a crime of violence;

Requiring a certain hearing officer, after making a certain determination, to order certain individuals to surrender firearms in the individual's possession under certain circumstances;

Prohibiting an individual, while hunting for any wild bird or mammal, from shooting or discharging a firearm within a certain distance of a public or nonpublic school during certain times;

Repealing certain duties of the Police Training Commission relating to a certain firearms safety training course;

Requiring the Secretary of State Police to disapprove an application for a State-regulated firearms dealer's license if the Secretary determines that the applicant intends a certain person to participate or hold a certain interest in the management or operation of the business for which the license is sought;

Requiring the Secretary to include certain information in a certain notice if a State-regulated firearms dealer's license application is denied;

Authorizing the Secretary to suspend a dealer's license if the licensee is not in compliance with certain record keeping and reporting requirements;

Authorizing the Secretary to lift a certain license suspension under certain circumstances;

Prohibiting a certain person from selling, purchasing, renting, transferring, or receiving a certain regulated firearm unless the person presents or possesses a certain handgun qualification license issued by the Secretary or certain credentials or identification;

Providing for certain exceptions to the requirement to present and possess a certain handgun qualification license under certain circumstances;

Establishing certain requirements and procedures for the issuance and renewal of a certain handgun qualification license;

Authorizing the Secretary to revoke a certain handgun qualification license under certain circumstances;

Requiring a certain person to return a certain handgun qualification license under certain circumstances;

Establishing certain requirements and procedures for the issuance of a replacement handgun qualification license under certain circumstances;

Requiring certain fees;

Requiring a certain licensee or designated law enforcement agency to transfer a certain firearm application to the Secretary in an electronic format;

Authorizing a certain hearing for a certain aggrieved person under certain circumstances;

Altering the information required in a certain statement for a certain firearm application;

Altering the circumstances under which a person is prohibited from possessing a certain regulated firearm;

Making it a misdemeanor for a certain person to possess certain ammunition if the person is prohibited from possessing a certain firearm under certain circumstances;

Establishing certain penalties;

Requiring certain persons to provide certain data about a certain person to a certain federal index in a certain manner under certain circumstances;

Authorizing a certain person who is subject to certain prohibitions from possessing certain firearms to apply for certain relief from certain prohibitions under certain circumstances;

Establishing the procedures and requirements for a person who is subject to certain prohibitions on the possession of certain firearms to apply for certain relief for certain prohibitions;

Authorizing the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene to adopt certain regulations;

Providing that certain individuals may not be held criminally or civilly liable for certain actions;

Requiring a person who moves into the State for the purpose of establishing residency to register certain firearms within a certain time period with the Secretary in a certain manner;

Requiring that a licensed dealer keep records of all receipts, sales, and other dispositions of firearms affected in connection with the licensed dealer's business;

Requiring the Secretary to adopt certain regulations specifying certain information;

Requiring that the records that licensed dealers maintain include certain information;

Specifying certain record keeping requirements to be met when a firearms business is discontinued;

Requiring that a licensee respond in a certain way after receipt of a request from the Secretary for certain information;

Authorizing the Secretary to implement a system by which a certain person may request certain information;

Requiring the Secretary to inspect the inventory and records of a licensed dealer under certain circumstances;

Authorizing the Secretary to conduct a certain inspection during a certain time;

Requiring certain persons who sell or transfer regulated firearms to notify certain purchasers or recipients at the time of purchase or transfer that the purchaser or recipient is required to report a lost or stolen regulated firearm to a certain law enforcement agency;

Requiring the owner of a regulated firearm to report the loss or theft of the regulated firearm to a certain law enforcement agency within a certain period of time after the owner discovers the loss or theft;

Requiring a law enforcement agency on receipt of a report of a lost or stolen regulated firearm to enter certain information into a certain database;

Providing that certain information is not open to public inspection;

Prohibiting a certain person from possessing a rifle or shotgun under certain circumstances;

Repealing a provision of law that prohibits a certain person from possessing a rifle or shotgun unless the person possesses a certain physician's certificate;

Requiring a certain applicant for a certain firearm permit to complete a certain firearm training course under certain circumstances;

Exempting a certain applicant for a permit from a certain training requirement under certain circumstances;

Authorizing the Secretary to issue a certain handgun qualification license without an additional application or fee under certain circumstances;

Prohibiting public inspection of the records of certain regulated firearm dealers, owners, or permit holders;

Authorizing the individual named in the record and the individual's attorney to view certain records;

Providing that this Act does not prohibit the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Department of State Police from accessing certain records in the performance of official duties;

Defining certain terms;

Requiring the Department of State Police to make certain investigations and to report its findings to the Governor and the General Assembly on or before a certain date;

Providing for the termination of certain provisions of this Act;

And generally relating to firearms.

BY adding to
Article - Criminal Law
Section 4-110
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2012 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY repealing and reenacting, with amendments,
Article - Criminal Law
Section 4-102, 4-203(b), and 4-301 through 4-306 to be under the amended
subtitle "Subtitle 3. Assault Weapons and Detachable Magazines"
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2012 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY adding to
Article - Health - General
Section 10-632(g)
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2009 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY repealing and reenacting, with amendments,
Article - Natural Resources

Section 10-410(g)
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2012 Replacement Volume)

BY repealing and reenacting, with amendments,
Article - Public Safety
Section 3-208, 5-101, 5-110(a) and (b), 5-114(a), 5-115, 5-118(b)(2) and (3),
5-120, 5-133, 5-143, 5-205, 5-206, 5-301, and 5-306
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2011 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY adding to
Article - Public Safety
Section 5-117.1, 5-118(b)(4), 5-133.1, 5-133.2, 5-133.3, and 5-143,
5-145, and 5-146
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2011 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY repealing
Article - Public Safety
Section 5-119
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2011 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY repealing and reenacting, without amendments,
Article - State Government
Section 10-616(a)
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2009 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

BY adding to
Article - State Government
Section 10-616(v)
Annotated Code of Maryland
(2009 Replacement Volume and 2012 Supplement)

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Nunchaku" means a device constructed of two pieces of any substance, including wood, metal, or plastic, connected by any chain, rope, leather, or other flexible material not exceeding 24 inches in length.
3. 1. "Pepper mace" means an aerosol propelled combination of highly disabling irritant pepper-based products.
  2. "Pepper mace" is also known as oleoresin capsicum (o.c.) spray.
4. "Star knife" means a device used as a throwing weapon, consisting of several sharp or pointed blades arrayed as radially disposed arms about a central disk.
5. 1. "Weapon" includes a dirk knife, bowie knife, switchblade knife, star knife, sandclub, metal knuckles, razor, and nunchaku.
  2. "Weapon" does not include:
    1. a handgun; or
    2. a penknife without a switchblade.
Exceptions for certain individuals. -- This section does not prohibit the following individuals from carrying a weapon:
1. an officer of the State, or of any county or municipal corporation of the State, who is entitled or required to carry the weapon as part of the officer's official equipment, or by any conservator of the peace, who is entitled or required to carry the weapon as part of the conservator's official equipment, or by any officer or conservator of the peace of another state who is temporarily in this State;
2. a special agent of a railroad;
3. a holder of a permit to carry a handgun issued under Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article; or
4. an individual who carries the weapon as a reasonable precaution against apprehended danger, subject to the right of the court in an action arising under this section to judge the reasonableness of the carrying of the weapon, and the proper occasion for carrying it, under the evidence in the case.
Prohibited. --
1. A person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon of any kind concealed on or about the person.
2. A person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon, chemical mace, pepper mace, or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of injuring an individual in an unlawful manner.
3. 1. This paragraph applies in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Caroline County, Cecil County, Harford County, Kent County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, St. Mary's County, Talbot County, Washington County, and Worcester County.
  2. A minor may not carry a dangerous weapon between 1 hour after sunset and 1 hour before sunrise, whether concealed or not, except while:
    1. on a bona fide hunting trip; or
    2. engaged in or on the way to or returning from a bona fide trap shoot, sport shooting event, or any organized civic or military activity.
Penalties. --
1. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.
2. For a person convicted under subsection (c)(1) or (2) of this section, if it appears from the evidence that the weapon was carried, concealed or openly, with the deliberate purpose of injuring or killing another, the court shall impose the highest sentence of imprisonment prescribed.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36; 2002, ch. 26, §2; ch. 213, §6; ch. 571, §1; 2003, ch. 17; ch. 21, §1.

Exceptions. -- This section does not apply to:
1. a law enforcement officer in the regular course of the officer's duty;
2. an off-duty law enforcement officer or a person who has retired as a law enforcement officer in good standing from a law enforcement agency of the united states, the state, or a local unit in the state who is a parent, guardian, or visitor of a student attending a school located on the public school property, provided that:
  1. the officer or retired officer is displaying the officer's or retired officer's badge or credential;
  2. the weapon carried or possessed by the officer or retired officer is concealed; and
  3. the officer or retired officer is authorized to carry a concealed handgun in the state;
3. a person hired by a county board of education specifically for the purpose of guarding public school property;
4. a person engaged in organized shooting activity for educational purposes; or
5. a person who, with a written invitation from the school principal, displays or engages in a historical demonstration using a weapon or a replica of a weapon for educational purposes.
Prohibited. -- A person may not carry or possess a firearm, knife, or deadly weapon of any kind on public school property.
Penalty. --
1. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.
2. A person who is convicted of carrying or possessing a handgun in violation of this section shall be sentenced under Subtitle 2 of this title.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36A; 2002, ch. 26, §2; ch. 213, §6; 2013, ch. 427; 2015 ch. 293, §1, eff. Oct. 1, 2015.

"Law enforcement officer" defined. -- In this section, "law enforcement officer" means:
1. a law enforcement officer who, in an official capacity, is authorized by law to make arrests;
2. a sheriff, deputy sheriff, or assistant sheriff; or
3. an employee of the Division of Correction, the Patuxent Institution, the Division of Pretrial Detention and Services, the Division of Parole and Probation, a local correctional facility, or any booking facility.
Prohibited. -- A person may not knowingly remove or attempt to remove a firearm from the possession of a law enforcement officer if:
1. the law enforcement officer is lawfully acting within the course and scope of employment; and
2. the person has knowledge or reason to know that the law enforcement officer is employed as a law enforcement officer.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $ 10,000 or both.
Sentencing. -- A sentence imposed under this section may be imposed separate from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for any crime based on the act or acts establishing the violation under this section.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36A-1; 2002, ch. 26, §2; ch. 213, §6.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Ammunition" means a cartridge, shell, or other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.
3. "Child" means an individual under the age of 16 years.
4. 1. "Firearm" means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, or short-barreled shotgun, as those terms are defined in §4-201 of this title, or any other firearm.
  2. "Firearm" does not include an antique firearm as defined in §4-201 of this title.
Exceptions. -- This section does not apply if:
1. the child's access to a firearm is supervised by an individual at least 18 years old;
2. the child's access to a firearm was obtained as a result of an unlawful entry;
3. the firearm is in the possession or control of a law enforcement officer while the officer is engaged in official duties; or
4. the child has a certificate of firearm and hunter safety issued under §10-301.1 of the Natural Resources Article.
Prohibited. -- A person may not store or leave a loaded firearm in a location where the person knew or should have known that an unsupervised child would gain access to the firearm.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 1,000.
Effect of violation. --
1. A violation of this section may not:
  1. be considered evidence of negligence;
  2. be considered evidence of contributory negligence;
  3. limit liability of a party or an insurer; or
  4. diminish recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a firearm or ammunition.
2. A party, witness, or lawyer may not refer to a violation of this section during a trial of a civil action that involves property damage, personal injury, or death.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36K; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Prohibited. -- A person may not sell, barter, display, or offer to sell or barter:
1. a knife or a penknife having a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring, or other device in the handle of the knife, commonly called a switchblade knife or a switchblade penknife; or
2. a device that is designed to propel a knife from a metal sheath by means of a high-compression ejector spring, commonly called a shooting knife.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 12 months or a fine of not less than $ 50 and not exceeding $ 500 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §339; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Definitions. --
1. In this section and §4-107 of this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Ammunition" means a cartridge, shell, or other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.
3. "Bulletproof body armor" means a material or object that is designed to cover or be worn on any part of the body to prevent, deflect, or slow down the penetration of ammunition.
4. "Crime of violence" has the meaning stated in §14-101 of this article.
5. "Drug trafficking crime" has the meaning stated in §5-621 of this article.
6. "Firearm" includes:
  1. a handgun, antique firearm, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled shotgun, or short-barreled rifle as those terms are defined in §4-201 of this title;
  2. an assault pistol as defined in §4-301 of this title;
  3. a machine gun as defined in §4-401 of this title; and
  4. a regulated firearm as defined in §5-101 of the Public Safety Article.
7. "Secretary" means the Secretary of State Police or the Secretary's designee.
Prohibited -- Wearing in crime of violence. -- A person may not wear bulletproof body armor in the commission of a crime of violence.
Prohibited -- Wearing in drug trafficking crime. -- A person may not wear or possess bulletproof body armor during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.
Sentencing. -- A sentence imposed under this section may be separate from a sentence for any crime of violence or drug trafficking crime establishing the violation of this section.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§27A, 27B; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17; 2005, ch. 25, §13.

Prohibited -- Use, possession, or purchase without permit. -- Except for a person holding a valid permit issued under subsection (c) of this section, a person who was previously convicted of a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime may not use, possess, or purchase bulletproof body armor.
Permit -- Petition. -- A person with a prior conviction for a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime may file a petition with the Secretary for a permit to purchase, possess, and use bulletproof body armor.
Permit -- Issuance. -- On receiving a petition under subsection (b) of this section, the Secretary may issue to the petitioner a permit to purchase, possess, and use bulletproof body armor under the terms, conditions, and limitations that the Secretary sets as appropriate, based on a determination that the petitioner:
1. is likely to use or possess bulletproof body armor in a safe and lawful manner; and
2. has shown good cause for the use, possession, or purchase of bulletproof body armor.
Permit -- Required considerations. -- In making a determination under subsection (c) of this section with respect to a petitioner, the Secretary shall consider:
1. the effect of the determination on the employment of the petitioner;
2. the interests of justice;
3. the safety of the petitioner;
4. any other valid reason for the petitioner to purchase, possess, or use bulletproof body armor; and
5. the totality of the circumstances.
Permit -- Conditions. -- As a condition of issuing a permit to a petitioner, the Secretary shall require that the petitioner agree to maintain in the person's possession a certified copy of the permit, including any terms, conditions, or limitations.
Permit -- Duration and renewal. --
1. A permit under this section expires 5 years after the date of its issuance.
2. A permit shall be renewed for successive periods of 5 years if the applicant:
  1. files an application for renewal at any time within 3 months before the permit expires; and
  2. satisfies the requirements of this section.
Permit -- Revocation. -- The Secretary may revoke a permit at any time if the Secretary finds that the holder no longer satisfies the qualifications set forth in subsection (c) of this section.
Informal review. --
1. A person whose application for a permit or renewal of a permit has been rejected or whose permit has been revoked or limited may request the Secretary to conduct an informal review by filing a written request within 10 days after receiving written notice of the Secretary's initial action.
2. The informal review may include a personal interview of the applicant.
3. An informal review under this subsection is not subject to the Administrative Procedure Act.
4. After the informal review, the Secretary shall sustain, reverse, or modify the initial action taken and notify the applicant of the decision in writing within 30 days after receiving the request for informal review.
Contested case proceeding. --
1. A person aggrieved by a decision of the Secretary may seek review of the decision under Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
2. A request for informal review under subsection (h) of this section is not a condition precedent to instituting a contested case proceeding under this subsection.
Regulations. -- The Secretary shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Penalty. -- A person who violates subsection (a) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §27C; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Prohibited. -- In Anne Arundel County, Caroline County, and St. Mary's County a person may not target practice with a gun or weapon or discharge a gun or weapon on the land of another without first obtaining written permission from the owner or possessor of the land.
Penalties. --
1. 1. In Anne Arundel County and Caroline County a person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:
    1. for a first violation, a fine of not less than $ 250 and not exceeding $ 1,000; and
    2. for each subsequent violation, a fine of not less than $ 500 and not exceeding $ 2,000.
  2. If a person fails to pay a fine imposed under this paragraph, further proceedings shall be held in accordance with §7-505 of the Courts Article.
2. In St. Mary's County a person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 1,000.

HISTORY: 2003, ch. 5, §3; 2004, ch. 26, §5.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Crime of violence" has the meaning stated in §14-101 of this article.
3. "Electronic control device" means a portable device designed as a weapon capable of injuring, immobilizing, or inflicting pain on an individual by the discharge of electrical current.
Requirements for possession or use. -- A person may not possess or use an electronic control device unless the person:
1. has attained the age of 18 years; and
2. has never been convicted of a crime of violence or a violation of §5-602, §5-603, §5-604, §5-605, §5-606, §5-613, or §5-614 of this article.
Prohibitions. -- An electronic control device may not be sold and activated in the State unless:
1. an instructional manual or audio or audiovisual instructions are provided to the purchaser;
2. the manufacturer maintains a record of the original owner of the electronic control device; and
3. the manufacturer or seller has obtained a State and federal criminal history records check of the original owner to ensure compliance with subsection (b)(2) of this section.
Access to manufacturer's records. -- A manufacturer of electronic control devices shall provide an investigating law enforcement agency with prompt access to the manufacturer's records on electronic control devices and cartridges sold in the State.
Penalty. --
1. A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 months or a fine not exceeding $ 500 or both.
2. A person who violates subsection (b) of this section while committing a separate crime that is a crime of violence is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.
More stringent requirements by local governments allowed. -- This section does not prohibit a local government from adopting a restriction or requirement concerning the possession of an electronic control device that is more stringent than the requirements of this section.

HISTORY: 2009, chs. 320, 321.

"Restricted firearm ammunition" defined. -- In this section, "restricted firearm ammunition" means a cartridge, a shell, or any other device that:
1. contains explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm; and
2. has a core constructed, excluding traces of other substances, entirely from one or a combination of:
  1. tungsten alloys;
  2. steel;
  3. iron;
  4. brass;
  5. beryllium copper;
  6. depleted uranium; or
  7. an equivalent material of similar density or hardness.
Possession prohibited. -- A person may not, during and in relation to the commission of a crime of violence as defined in §14-101 of this article, possess or use restricted firearm ammunition.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

In general. -- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language patterned after present Art. 27, §36F(a).
Antique firearm. -- "Antique firearm" means:
1. a firearm, including a firearm with a matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap, or similar ignition system, manufactured before 1899; or
2. a replica of a firearm described in item (1) of this subsection that:
  1. is not designed or redesigned to use rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed ammunition; or
  2. uses rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed ammunition that is no longer manufactured in the United States and is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(c).
3. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In item (1) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" to clarify that "antique firearm" means either a firearm described in item (1) or a replica of a firearm described in item (2) of this subsection but not necessarily both.
5. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
6. Also in item (1) of this subsection, the former reference to a similar "type"' of ignition system is deleted as surplusage.
Handgun. --
1. "Handgun" means a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed on the person.
2. "Handgun" includes a short-barreled shotgun and a short-barreled rifle.
3. "Handgun" does not include a shotgun, rifle, or antique firearm.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language patterned after present Art. 27, §36F(b).
3. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the former phrases "as these terms are defined below," and "as those terms are defined below" are deleted as surplusage.
5. ** DEFINED TERM:
6. "Person" §1-101
7. **
Law enforcement official. -- "Law enforcement official" means: **
1. a full-time member of a police force or other unit of the United States, a state, a county, a municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of a state who is responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of the laws of the United States, a state, a county, a municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of a state; **
2. a part-time member of a police force of a county or municipal corporation who is certified by the county or municipal corporation as being trained and qualified in the use of handguns; **
3. a fire and explosive investigator of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department as defined in §2-208.3 of the Criminal Procedure Article; **
4. a Montgomery County fire and explosive investigator as defined in §2-208.1 of the Criminal Procedure Article; **
5. an Anne Arundel County or City of Annapolis fire and explosive investigator as defined in §2-208.2 of the Criminal Procedure Article; **
6. a Worcester County fire and explosive investigator as defined in §2-208.4 of the Criminal Procedure Article; or **
7. a City of Hagerstown fire and explosive investigator as defined in §2-208.5 of the Criminal Procedure Article.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(i).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In items (1) and (2) of this subsection, the references to a "municipal corporation" are substituted for the former references to a "municipality" for consistency with Md. Constitution, Art. XI-E.
5. REVISOR'S NOTE
6. In item (1) of this subsection, the reference to a "unit" is substituted for the former reference to an "agency" for consistency within this article. See General Revisor's Note to article.
7. REVISOR'S NOTE
8. Also in item (1) of this subsection, the references to a political subdivision "of a state" are added for clarity.
9. REVISOR'S NOTE
10. In item (2) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" to clarify that "law enforcement official" means any individual described in item (1), (2), or (3) of this section.
11. "County" §1-101
12. "State" §1-101
13. **
Rifle. -- "Rifle" means a weapon that is: **
1. designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder; and **
2. designed or redesigned, and made or remade to use the energy of the explosive in a fixed metallic cartridge to fire only a single projectile through a rifled bore for each single pull of the trigger.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(d). **
Short-barreled rifle. -- "Short-barreled rifle" means: **
1. a rifle that has one or more barrels less than 16 inches long; or**
2. a weapon that has an overall length of less than 26 inches and that was made from a rifle, whether by alteration, modification, or otherwise.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(f).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In item (1) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" to clarify that "short-barreled rifle" means either the rifle described in item (1) of this subsection or the weapon described in item (2) of this subsection.
5. "Rifle" §4-201
6. **
Short-barreled shotgun. -- "Short-barreled shotgun" means: **
1. a shotgun that has one or more barrels less than 18 inches long; or **
2. a weapon that has an overall length of less than 26 inches long and was made from a shotgun, whether by alteration, modification, or otherwise.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(e).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In item (1) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" to clarify that "short-barreled shotgun" means either the shotgun described in item (1) of this subsection or the weapon described in item (2) of this subsection, but not necessarily both. **
Shotgun. -- "Shotgun" means a weapon that is: **
1. designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder; and **
2. designed or redesigned and made or remade to use the energy of the explosive in a fixed shotgun shell to fire through a smooth bore one or more projectiles for each pull of the trigger.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(g).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In item (2) of this subsection, the reference to "one or more projectiles" is substituted for the former reference to "either a number of ball shot or a single projectile" for clarity. **
Vehicle. -- "Vehicle" means a motor vehicle as defined in Title 11, Subtitle 1 of the Transportation Article, a train, an aircraft, or a vessel.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §36F(k).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. The reference to "Subtitle 1" of Title 11 of the Transportation Article is added for clarity since Subtitle 1 contains the definitions for that title.
5. REVISOR'S NOTE
6. The references to "a train", "an aircraft", and "'a vessel" are substituted for the former references to "trains", "aircraft", and "vessels" in light of Art. 1, §8, which provides that the singular generally includes the plural.
7. REVISOR'S NOTE
8. The conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" for clarity.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36F(a)-(g), (i), (k); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2004, ch. 377; 2005, ch. 463; 2007, ch. 410, §2; ch. 619; 2008, chs. 428, 429.

The General Assembly finds that:
1. the number of violent crimes committed in the State has increased alarmingly in recent years;
2. a high percentage of violent crimes committed in the State involves the use of handguns;
3. the result is a substantial increase in the number of deaths and injuries largely traceable to the carrying of handguns in public places by criminals;
4. current law has not been effective in curbing the more frequent use of handguns in committing crime; and
5. additional regulations on the wearing, carrying, and transporting of handguns are necessary to preserve the peace and tranquility of the State and to protect the rights and liberties of the public.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36B(a); 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Prohibited. --
1. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a person may not:
  1. wear, carry, or transport a handgun, whether concealed or open, on or about the person;
  2. wear, carry, or knowingly transport a handgun, whether concealed or open, in a vehicle traveling on a road or parking lot generally used by the public, highway, waterway, or airway of the State;
  3. violate item (i) or (ii) of this paragraph while on public school property in the State;
  4. violate item (i) or (ii) of this paragraph with the deliberate purpose of injuring or killing another person; or
  5. violate item ( i ) or ( ii ) of this paragraph with a handgun loaded with ammunition
2. There is a rebuttable presumption that a person who transports a handgun under paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection transports the handgun knowingly.
Exceptions. -- This section does not prohibit:
1. the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun by a person who is authorized at the time and under the circumstances to wear, carry, or transport the handgun as part of the person's official equipment, and is:
  1. a law enforcement official of the United States, the State, or a county or city of the State;
  2. a member of the armed forces of the United States or of the National Guard on duty or traveling to or from duty;
  3. a law enforcement official of another state or subdivision of another state temporarily in this State on official business;
  4. a correctional officer or warden of a correctional facility in the State;
  5. a sheriff or full-time assistant or deputy sheriff of the State; or
  6. a temporary or part-time sheriff's deputy;
2. the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun, in compliance with any limitations imposed under §5-307 of the public safety article, by a person to whom a permit to wear, carry, or transport the handgun has been issued under Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article;
3. the carrying of a handgun on the person or in a vehicle while the person is transporting the handgun to or from the place of legal purchase or sale, or to or from a bona fide repair shop, or between bona fide residences of the person, or between the bona fide residence and place of business of the person, if the business is operated and owned substantially by the person if each handgun is unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or an enclosed holster;
4. the wearing, carrying, or transporting by a person of a handgun used in connection with an organized military activity, a target shoot, formal or informal target practice, sport shooting event, hunting, a Department of Natural Resources-sponsored firearms and hunter safety class, trapping, or a dog obedience training class or show, while the person is engaged in, on the way to, or returning from that activity if each handgun is unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or an enclosed holster;
5. the moving by a bona fide gun collector of part or all of the collector's gun collection from place to place for public or private exhibition if each handgun is unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or an enclosed holster;
6. the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun by a person on real estate that the person owns or leases or where the person resides or within the confines of a business establishment that the person owns or leases;
7. the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun by a supervisory employee:
  1. in the course of employment;
  2. within the confines of the business establishment in which the supervisory employee is employed; and
  3. when so authorized by the owner or manager of the business establishment;
8. the carrying or transporting of a signal pistol or other visual distress signal approved by the United States Coast Guard in a vessel on the waterways of the State or, if the signal pistol or other visual distress signal is unloaded and carried in an enclosed case, in a vehicle; or
9. the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun by a person who is carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the handgun, if:
  1. the handgun is unloaded;
  2. the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the handgun is being transported in accordance with the court order; and
  3. the person transports the handgun directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station.
Penalty. --
1. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to the penalties provided in this subsection.
2. If the person has not previously been convicted under this section, §4-204 of this subtitle, or §4-101 or §4-102 of this title:
  1. except as provided in item (ii) of this paragraph, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 30 days and not exceeding 3 years or a fine of not less than $ 250 and not exceeding $ 2,500 or both; or
  2. if the person violates subsection (a)(1)(iii) of this section, the person shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 90 days.
3. 1. If the person has previously been convicted once under this section, §4-204 of this subtitle, or §4-101 or §4-102 of this title:
    1. except as provided in item 2 of this subparagraph, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 1 year and not exceeding 10 years; or
    2. if the person violates subsection (a)(1)(iii) of this section, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 3 years and not exceeding 10 years.
  2. 1. except as provided in subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, the court may not impose less than the applicable minimum sentence provided under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.
    2. if the person violates subsection ( a )(1)( v ) of this section , the court may not suspend any part of or impose less than the applicable mandatory minimum sentence provided under subparagraph ( i ) of this paragraph
  3. except as provided in § 4–305 of the c orrectional services article , if the person violates subsection ( a )(1)( v ) of this section , the person is not eligible for parole during the mandatory minimum sentence.
  4. a mandatory minimum sentence under subparagraph ( ii )2 of this paragraph may not be imposed unless the state's attorney notifies the defendant in writing at least 30 days before trial of the state's intention to seek the mandatory minimum sentence.
4. 1. If the person has previously been convicted more than once under this section, §4-204 of this subtitle, or §4-101 or §4-102 of this title, or of any combination of these crimes:
    1. except as provided in item 2 of this subparagraph, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 3 years and not exceeding 10 years; or
    2. 1. if the person violates subsection (a)(1)(iii) of this section, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not exceeding 10 years; or
      2. f the person violates subsection (a)(1)(iv) of this section, the person is subject to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not exceeding 10 years.
  2. 1. except as provided in subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph , the court may not impose less than the applicable minimum sentence provided under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.
    2. if the person violates subsection ( a )(1)( v ) of this section , the court may not suspend any part of or impose less than the applicable mandatory minimum sentence provided under subparagraph ( i ) of this paragraph.
  3. except as provided in § 4–305 of the correctional services article , if the person violates subsection ( a )(1)( v ) of this section , the person is not eligible for parole during the mandatory minimum sentence
  4. a mandatory minimum sentence under subparagraph ( ii )2 of this paragraph may not be imposed unless the state's attorney notifies the defendant in writing at least 30 days before trial of the state's intention to seek the mandatory minimum sentence

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36B(b), (c); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17; ch. 21, §1; 2004, ch. 25; 2005, ch. 482; 2010, ch. 712; 2011, ch. 65; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 ch. 146

"Firearm" defined. --
1. In this section, "firearm" means:
  1. a weapon that expels, is designed to expel, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; or
  2. the frame or receiver of such a weapon.
2. "Firearm" includes an antique firearm, handgun, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun, starter gun, or any other firearm, whether loaded or unloaded.
Prohibited. -- A person may not use a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, as defined in §5-101 of the Public Safety Article, or any felony, whether the firearm is operable or inoperable at the time of the crime.
Penalty. --
1. 1. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, in addition to any other penalty imposed for the crime of violence or felony, shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not exceeding 20 years.
  2. The court may not impose less than the minimum sentence of 5 years and, except as otherwise provided in §4-305 of the Correctional Services Article, the person is not eligible for parole in less than 5 years.
2. For each subsequent violation, the sentence shall be consecutive to and not concurrent with any other sentence imposed for the crime of violence or felony.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36B(d); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17; 2011, chs. 164, 165.

Reduction or suspension of mandatory minimum sentence. -- Notwithstanding §14-102 of this article or any other provision of law, except with respect to a sentence prescribed in §4-203(c)(2) of this subtitle, a court may not:
1. enter a judgment for less than the mandatory minimum sentence prescribed in §4-203 or §4-204 of this subtitle in a case in which a mandatory minimum sentence is specified under §4-203 or §4-204 of this subtitle; or
2. suspend a mandatory minimum sentence prescribed in §4-203 or §4-204 of this subtitle.
Probation. -- Notwithstanding §14-102 of this article or any other provision of law:
1. except with respect to a sentence prescribed in §4-203(c)(2) of this subtitle for wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun other than on public school property, a court may not order probation before judgment in a case arising under this subtitle; and
2. except with respect to a sentence prescribed in §4-203(c)(2) of this subtitle, a court may not order probation with respect to a case arising under §4-203 or §4-204 of this subtitle that would have the effect of reducing the actual period of imprisonment prescribed in §4-203 or §4-204 of this subtitle as a mandatory minimum sentence.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36B(e); 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Limited search. --
1. A law enforcement officer may make an inquiry and conduct a limited search of a person under paragraph (2) of this subsection if the officer, in light of the officer's observations, information, and experience, reasonably believes that:
  1. the person may be wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun in violation of §4-203 of this subtitle;
  2. because the person possesses a handgun, the person is or presently may be dangerous to the officer or to others;
  3. under the circumstances, it is impracticable to obtain a search warrant; and
  4. to protect the officer or others, swift measures are necessary to discover whether the person is wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun.
2. If the circumstances specified under paragraph (1) of this subsection exist, a law enforcement officer:
  1. may approach the person and announce the officer's status as a law enforcement officer;
  2. may request the name and address of the person;
  3. if the person is in a vehicle, may request the person's license to operate the vehicle and the registration of the vehicle;
  4. may ask any question and request any explanation that may be reasonably calculated to determine whether the person is unlawfully wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun in violation of §4-203 of this subtitle; and
  5. if the person does not offer an explanation that dispels the officer's reasonable beliefs described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, may conduct a search of the person limited to a patting or frisking of the person's clothing in search of a handgun.
3. A law enforcement officer acting under this subsection shall take into account all circumstances of the occasion, including the age, appearance, physical condition, manner, and gender of the person approached.
Seizure of handgun and arrest. --
1. If the officer discovers that the person is wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun, the officer may demand evidence from the person of the person's authority to wear, carry, or transport the handgun in accordance with §4-203(b) of this subtitle.
2. If the person does not produce the evidence specified in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the officer may seize the handgun and arrest the person.
Written report. --
1. A law enforcement officer who conducts a search or seizure in accordance with this section shall file a written report with the law enforcement officer's employer unit within 24 hours after the search or seizure.
2. The report shall be on a form that the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services prescribes, shall include the name of the person searched, and shall describe the circumstances surrounding and the reasons for the search or seizure.
3. A copy of the report shall be sent to the Secretary of State Police.
Civil actions. -- On request of a law enforcement officer, the Attorney General shall defend the officer in a civil action, including any appeal, in which the officer is sued for conducting a search or seizure under this section that is alleged to be unreasonable and unlawful.
Construction of section. --
1. This section may not be construed to limit the right of a law enforcement officer to conduct any other type of search or seizure or make an arrest that is otherwise authorized by law.
2. The provisions of this section are in addition to and not limited by the provisions of Title 2 of the Criminal Procedure Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36D; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2010, ch. 72, §5; 2011, ch. 65, §5.

Repealed by Acts 2003, ch. 5, §1, effective October 1, 2003.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. 1. "Demonstration" means one or more persons demonstrating, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding a vigil, or engaging in any other similar conduct that involves the communication or expression of views or grievances and that has the effect, intent, or propensity to attract a crowd or onlookers.
  2. "Demonstration" does not include the casual use of property by visitors or tourists that does not have the intent or propensity to attract a crowd or onlookers.
3. 1. "Firearm" means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun, or any other firearm, whether loaded or unloaded.
  2. "Firearm" does not include an antique firearm.
4. "Handgun" has the meaning stated in §5-101 of the Public Safety Article.
5. "Law enforcement officer" means:
  1. a member of a police force or other unit of the United States, the State, a county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision who is responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of the laws of the United States, the State, a county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision;
  2. a park police officer of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission;
  3. a member of the University of Maryland police force; and
  4. any military or militia personnel directed by constituted authority to keep law and order.
6. 1. "Public place" means a place to which the general public has access and a right to resort for business, entertainment, or other lawful purpose.
  2. "Public place" is not limited to a place devoted solely to the uses of the public.
  3. "Public place" includes:
    1. the front or immediate area or parking lot of a store, restaurant, tavern, shopping center, or other place of business;
    2. a public building, including its grounds and curtilage;
    3. a public parking lot;
    4. a public street, sidewalk, or right-of-way;
    5. a public park; and
    6. other public grounds.
Prohibited. --
1. This subsection does not apply to a law enforcement officer.
2. A person may not have a firearm in the person's possession or on or about the person at a demonstration in a public place or in a vehicle that is within 1,000 feet of a demonstration in a public place after:
  1. the person has been advised by a law enforcement officer that a demonstration is occurring at the public place; and
  2. the person has been ordered by the law enforcement officer to leave the area of the demonstration until the person disposes of the firearm.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36G(a)(1)-(5), (7), (b), (c); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17.

State preemption. -- Except as otherwise provided in this section, the State preempts the right of a county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district to regulate the purchase, sale, taxation, transfer, manufacture, repair, ownership, possession, and transportation of:
1. a handgun, rifle, or shotgun; and
2. ammunition for and components of a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.
Exceptions. --
1. A county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may regulate the purchase, sale, transfer, ownership, possession, and transportation of the items listed in subsection (a) of this section:
  1. with respect to minors;
  2. with respect to law enforcement officials of the subdivision; and
  3. except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, within 100 yards of or in a park, church, school, public building, and other place of public assembly.
2. A county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may not prohibit the teaching of or training in firearms safety, or other educational or sporting use of the items listed in subsection (a) of this section.
3. A county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may not prohibit the transportation of an item listed in subsection (a) of this section by a person who is carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the item, if:
  1. the handgun, rifle, or shotgun is unloaded;
  2. the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the item is being transported in accordance with the court order; and
  3. the person transports the item directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station.
Preexisting local laws. -- To the extent that a local law does not create an inconsistency with this section or expand existing regulatory control, a county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may exercise its existing authority to amend any local law that existed on or before December 31, 1984.
Discharge of firearms. --
1. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, in accordance with law, a county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may regulate the discharge of handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
2. A county, municipal corporation, or special taxing district may not prohibit the discharge of firearms at established ranges.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2010, ch. 712.

In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
"Assault Long gun" means any assault weapon listed under §5-101(r)(2) of the public safety article.
"Assault Pistol" means any of the following firearms:
1. AA Arms AP-9 semiautomatic pistol;
2. Bushmaster semiautomatic pistol;
3. Claridge HI-TEC semiautomatic pistol;
4. D Max Industries semiautomatic pistol;
5. Encom MK-IV, MP-9, or MP-45 semiautomatic pistol;
6. Heckler and Koch semiautomatic SP-89 pistol;
7. Holmes MP-83 semiautomatic pistol;
8. Ingram MAC 10/11 semiautomatic pistol and variations including the Partisan Avenger and the SWD Cobray;
9. Intratec TEC-9/DC-9 semiautomatic pistol in any centerfire variation;
10. P.A.W.S. type semiautomatic pistol;
11. Skorpion semiautomatic pistol;
12. Spectre double action semiautomatic pistol (Sile, F.I.E., Mitchell);
13. UZI semiautomatic pistol;
14. Weaver Arms semiautomatic Nighthawk pistol; or
15. Wilkinson semiautomatic "Linda" pistol.
"Assault Weapon" means:
1. an assault long gun;
2. an assault pistol; or
3. a copycat weapon.
"binary trigger system" means a device that, when installed in or attached to a firearm, fires both when the trigger is pulled and on release of the trigger.
"bump stock" means a device that, when installed in or attached to a firearm, increases the rate of fire of the firearm by using energy from the recoil of the firearm to generate a reciprocating action that facilitates repeated activation of the trigger.
"burst trigger system " means a device that, when installed in or attached to a firearm , allows the firearm to discharge two or more shots with a single pull of the trigger by altering the trigger reset.
1. "Copycat Weapon" means:
  1. a semiautomatic centerfire rifle that can accept a detachable magazine and has any two of the following:
    1. a folding stock;
    2. a grenade launcher or flare launcher;
    3. a flash suppressor;
  2. a semiautomatic centerfire rifle that has a fixed magazine with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds;
  3. a semiautomatic centerfire rifle that has an overall length of less than 29 inches;
  4. a semiautomatic pistol with a fixed magazine that can accept more than 10 rounds;
  5. a semiautomatic shotgun that has a folding stock;
  6. a shotgun with a revolving cylinder.
2. "Copycat Weapon" does not include an assault long gun or an assault pistol.
"Detachable Magazine" means an ammunition feeding device that can be removed readily from a firearm without requiring disassembly of the firearm action or without the use of a tool, including a bullet or cartridge.
"Flash Suppressor" means a device that functions, or is intended to function, to perceptibly reduce or redirect muzzle flash from the shooter's field of vision.
"hellfire trigger" means a device that, when installed in or attached to a firearm , disengages the trigger return spring when the trigger is pulled.
1. "rapid fire trigger activator" means any device, including a removable manual or power - driven activating device, constructed so that, when installed in or attached to a firearm :
  1. the rate at which the trigger is activated increases ; or
  2. the rate of fire increases.
2. "rapid fire trigger activator" includes a bump stock, trigger crank, hellfire trigger , binary trigger system, burst trigger system, or a copy or a similar device, regardless of the producer or manufacturer.
3. "rapid fire trigger activator" does not include a semiautomatic replacement trigger that improves the performance and functionality over the stock trigger.
4. "Licensed Firearms Dealer" means a person who holds a dealer's license under title 5, subtitle 1 of the public safety article.
HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-1; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 ch. 252

This subtitle does not apply to:
1. if acting within the scope of official business, personnel of the United States government or a unit of that government, members of the armed forces of the United States or of the National Guard, law enforcement personnel of the State or a local unit in the State , or a railroad police officer authorized under title 3 of the public safety article or 49 U.S.C. §28101;
2. a firearm modified to render it permanently inoperative;
3. possession, importation, manufacture, receipt for manufacture, shipment for manufacture, storage, purchases, sales, and transport to or by a licensed firearms dealer or manufacturer who is:
  1. providing or servicing an assault weapon or detachable magazine for a law enforcement unit or for personnel exempted under item (1) of this section;
  2. acting to sell or transfer an assault weapon or detachable magazine to a licensed firearm dealer in another state or to an individual purchaser in another state through a licensed firearms dealer; or
  3. acting to return to a customer in another state an assault weapon transferred to the licensed firearms dealer or manufacturer under the terms of a warranty or for repair;
4. organizations that are required or authorized by federal law governing their specific business or activity to maintain assault weapons and applicable ammunition and detachable magazines;
5. the receipt of an assault weapon or detachable magazine by inheritance, and possession of the inherited assault weapon or detachable magazine, if the decedent lawfully possessed the assault weapon or detachable magazine and the person in heriting the assault weapon or detachable magazine is not otherwise disqualified from possessing a regulated firearm;
6. the receipt of an assault weapon or detachable magazine by a personal representative of an estate for purposes of exercising the powers and duties of a personal representative of an estate;
7. possession by a person who is retired in good standing from service with a law enforcement agency of the state or a local unit in the state and is not otherwise prohibited from receiving an assault weapon or detachable magazine if:
  1. the assault weapon or detachable magazine is sold or transferred to the person by the law enforcement agency on retirement; or
  2. the assault weapon or detachable magazine was purchased or obtained by the person for official use with the law enforcement agency before retirement;
8. possession or transport by an employee of an armored car company if the individual is acting within the scope of employment and has a permit issued under title 5, subtitle 3 of the public safety article; or
9. possession, receipt, and testing by, or shipping to or from:
  1. an iso 17025 accredited, national institute of justice-approved ballistics testing laboratory; or
  2. a facility or entity that manufactures or provides research and development testing, analysis, or engineering for personal protective equipment or vehicle protection systems.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-2; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a person may not:
1. transport an assault weapon into the State; or
2. possess, sell, offer to sell, transfer, purchase, or receive an assault weapon.
1. a person who lawfully possessed an assault pistol before June 1, 1994, and who registered the assault pistol with the Secretary of State Police before August 1, 1994, may:
  1. continue to possess and transport the assault pistol; or
  2. while carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the assault pistol, transport the assault pistol directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station, a state or local law enforcement agency, or a federally licensed firearms dealer, AS APPLICABLE, if the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the person is transporting the assault pistol in accordance with a court order and the assault pistol is unloaded.
2. a licensed firearms dealer may continue to possess, sell, offer for sale, or transfer an assault longgun or a copycat weapon that the licensed firearms dealer lawfully possessed on or before october 1, 2013.
3. a person who lawfully possessed has a purchase order for, or completed an application to purchase an assault longgun or a copycat weapon before october 1, 2013, may:
  1. possess and transport the assault longgun or copycat weapon; or
  2. while carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the assault longgun or copycat weapon, transport the assault longgun or copycat weapon directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station, a state or local law enforcement agency, or a federally licensed firearms dealer, as applicable, if the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the person is transporting the assault longgun or copycat weapon in accordance with a court order and the assault longgun or copycat weapon is unloaded.
4. a person may transport an assault weapon to or from:
  1. an ISO 17025 accredited, national institute of justice-approved ballistics testing laboratory; or
  2. a facility or entity that manufactures or provides research and development testing, analysis, or engineering for personal protective equipment or vehicle protection systems.
5. a federally licensed firearms dealer may receive and possess an assault weapon received from a person in accordance with a court order to transfer firearms under § 6–234 of the criminal procedure article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-3; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2010, ch. 712; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 c. 251

A law enforcement unit may seize as contraband and dispose of according to regulation an assault weapon transported, sold, transferred, purchased, received, or possessed in violation of this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-4; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

This section does not apply to
1. a .22 caliber rifle with a tubular magazine. : or
2. a law enforcement officer or a person who retired in good standing from service with a law enforcement agency of the united states, the state, or any law enforcement agency in the state
A person may not manufacture, sell, offer for sale, purchase, receive, or transfer a detachable magazine that has a capacity of more than 10 rounds of ammunition for a firearm.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-5(b); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

Prohibitions. -- Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a person may not:
1. transport a rapid fire trigger activator into the State; or
2. manufacture, possess, sell, offer to sell, transfer, purchase, or receive a rapid fire trigger activator.
Exceptions. -- This section does not apply to the possession of a rapid fire trigger activator by a person who:
1. possessed the rapid fire trigger activator before October 1, 2018;
2. applied to the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives before October 1, 2018, for authorization to possess a rapid fire trigger activator;
3. received authorization to possess a rapid fire trigger activator from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives before October 1, 2019; and
4. is in compliance with all federal requirements for possession of a rapid fire trigger activator.

Enacted 2018 ch. 252

Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person who violates this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.
Use in a felony or crime of violence. --
1. A person who uses an assault weapon, a rapid fire trigger activator, or a magazine that has a capacity of more than 10 rounds of ammunition, in the commission of a felony or a crime of violence as defined in §5-101 of the Public Safety Article is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction, in addition to any other sentence imposed for the felony or crime of violence, shall be sentenced under this subsection.
2. 1. For a first violation, the person shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not exceeding 20 years.
  2. The court may not impose less than the minimum sentence of 5 years.
  3. The mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years may not be suspended.
  4. Except as otherwise provided in §4-305 of the Correctional Services Article, the person is not eligible for parole in less than 5 years.
3. 1. For each subsequent violation, the person shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 10 years and not exceeding 20 years.
  2. The court may not impose less than the minimum sentence of 10 years.
  3. A sentence imposed under this paragraph shall be consecutive to and not concurrent with any other sentence imposed for the felony or crime of violence.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36H-6; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17; ch. 21, §1; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 ch. 252

In general. -- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language added as the standard introductory language to a definition section.
Crime of violence. --
1. "Crime of violence" means:
  1. murder in any degree;
  2. manslaughter;
  3. kidnapping;
  4. rape in any degree;
  5. assault in the first degree;
  6. robbery under §3-402 or §3-403 of this article;
  7. burglary in any degree;
  8. escape in the first degree; or
  9. theft.
2. "Crime of violence" includes an attempt to commit a crime listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from the first sentence of former Art. 27, §372.
3. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
4. The former phrase "applies to and includes any of the following crimes or an attempt to commit any of the same" is deleted to distinguish between primary crimes and attempted crimes for clarity.
5. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
6. In paragraph (1) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" for accuracy and consistency in describing the qualifying crimes.
7. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
8. The Criminal Law Article Review Committee notes, for the consideration of the General Assembly, that although "rape in any degree" is listed as a "crime of violence" in paragraph (1)(iv) of this subsection, the related crimes of "sexual offense in the first degree" and "sexual offense in the second degree", §§3-304 and 3-305 of this article, respectively, are not included. The General Assembly may wish to consider whether any of the "sexual offenses" codified in Title 3, Subtitle 3 of this article should be added to the definition of "crime of violence" in this subsection.
9. Machine gun. -- "Machine gun" means a loaded or unloaded weapon that is capable of automatically discharging more than one shot or bullet from a magazine by a single function of the firing device.
10. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
11. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from the second sentence of former Art. 27, §372.
12. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
13. The former phrase "of any description, by whatever name known," is deleted as surplusage in light of the common reference to the undefined term "weapon".

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §372; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Evidence of possession. -- The presence of a machine gun in a room, boat, or vehicle is evidence of the possession or use of the machine gun by each person occupying the room, boat, or vehicle.
Exceptions. -- This subtitle does not prohibit or interfere with:
1. the manufacture, sale, and transportation of a machine gun for or to a military force or peace officer of the United States, a state, or a political subdivision of a state;
2. the possession of a machine gun for a scientific purpose;
3. the possession, as a curiosity, ornament, or keepsake, of a machine gun that cannot be used as a weapon;
4. the possession of a machine gun for a purpose that is manifestly not aggressive or offensive; or
5. the transportation of a lawfully possessed machine gun by a person who is carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the machine gun, if:
  1. the machine gun is unloaded;
  2. the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the machine gun is being transported in accordance with the court order; and
  3. the person transports the machine gun directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station.
Seizure and confiscation. --
1. A court may issue a warrant to search for and seize a machine gun possessed in violation of this subtitle under the same procedure as for issuance of a warrant for stolen property.
2. On application by the State's Attorney, a court may order the confiscation or destruction of a legally seized machine gun or the transfer of the machine gun to a peace officer of the State or a political subdivision of the State.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§376, 377, 380; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2010, ch. 712.

Manufacturer registration. --
1. A manufacturer of a machine gun shall keep a register of each machine gun manufactured or handled by the manufacturer.
2. The register shall contain:
  1. the method of manufacture and serial number of the machine gun;
  2. the date of manufacture, sale, loan, gift, delivery, and receipt of the machine gun from the manufacturer; and
  3. the name, address, and occupation of the person to whom the machine gun was sold, loaned, given or delivered, or from whom the machine gun was received, and the purpose for which the machine gun was acquired.
3. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 100.
Inspection of manufacturer stock. --
1. On demand, a manufacturer of a machine gun shall allow a marshal, sheriff, or police officer to inspect the manufacturer's entire stock of machine guns, parts, and supplies and the register required under subsection (a) of this section.
2. A person who violates paragraph (1) of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 100.
Registration of possession. --
1. A person who acquires a machine gun shall register the machine gun with the Secretary of State Police:
  1. within 24 hours after acquiring the machine gun; and
  2. in each succeeding year during the month of May.
2. The Secretary of State Police shall prepare and, on request of an applicant, furnish an application form for registration under this subsection.
3. An application for registration shall contain:
  1. the make, model, serial number, caliber, type, barrel length, finish, and country of origin of the machine gun;
  2. the name, address, race, gender, date of birth, Maryland driver's license number, and occupation of the person in possession of the machine gun; and
  3. the name of the person from whom the machine gun was acquired and the purpose for acquiring the machine gun.
4. Each application for registration filed with the Secretary of State Police shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable registration fee of $ 10.
5. Registration data provided under this section is not open to public inspection.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§378, 379; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2010, ch. 72, §5.

Prohibited. -- A person may not use or possess a machine gun in the commission or attempted commission of a crime of violence.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 20 years.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §373; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

Presumption of offensive or aggressive purpose. -- Possession or use of a machine gun is presumed to be for an offensive or aggressive purpose when:
1. the machine gun:
  1. is on premises not owned or rented for bona fide permanent residence or business occupancy by the person in whose possession the machine gun is found;
  2. is in the possession of, or used by, an unnaturalized foreign-born person or a person who has been convicted of a crime of violence in any state or federal court of the United States; or
  3. is not registered as required under §4-403 of this subtitle; or
2. empty or loaded shells that have been used or are susceptible of being used in the machine gun are found in the immediate vicinity of the machine gun.
Prohibited. -- A person may not possess or use a machine gun for an offensive or aggressive purpose.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years.
Statute of limitations and in banc review. -- A person who violates this section is subject to §5-106(b) of the Courts Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§374, 375; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

This subtitle shall be interpreted and construed as to effectuate its general purpose to make uniform the law of those states that enact it.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §382; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

This subtitle may be cited as the Uniform Machine Gun Act.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §383; 2002, ch. 26, §2.

In general. -- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §139A(a).
Destructive device. --
1. "Destructive device" means explosive material, incendiary material, or toxic material that is:
  1. combined with a delivery or detonating apparatus so as to be capable of inflicting injury to persons or damage to property; or
  2. deliberately modified, containerized, or otherwise equipped with a special delivery, activation, or detonation component that gives the material destructive characteristics of a military ordnance.
2. "Destructive device" includes a bomb, grenade, mine, shell, missile, flamethrower, poison gas, Molotov cocktail, pipe bomb, and petroleum-soaked ammonium nitrate.
1. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §139A(c).
3. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In paragraph (1) of this subsection, the word "is" is substituted for the former phrase "has been" for consistency in tense.
5. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
6. In paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection, the former reference to "[d]evices which are primarily designed and manufactured for military purposes as instrumentalities of destruction" is deleted as included in the reference to a material that is combined with apparatus "so as to be capable of inflicting injury to persons or damage to property".
7. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
8. In paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection, the phrase "that gives the material" is substituted for the former phrase "so as to give it the" for clarity.
9. ** REVISOR'S NOTE
10. In paragraph (2) of this subsection, the conjunction "and" is substituted for the former conjunction "or" as the standard conjunction used in an inclusive definition.
11. ** DEFINED TERMS:
12. "Explosive material" §4-501
13. ** DEFINED TERMS:
14. "Incendiary material" §4-501
15. ** DEFINED TERMS:
16. "Person" §1-101
17. ** DEFINED TERMS:
18. "Toxic material" §4-501
19. **
Explosive material. -- **
1. "Explosive material" means material that explodes when detonated and has a destructive capability. **
2. "Explosive material" includes: **
  1. explosives as defined in §11-101 of the Public Safety Article; and **
  2. dynamite for construction work, ammonium nitrate, natural gas in pipelines or storage tanks, ether, and cannisterized oxygen for health care facilities. **
3. "Explosive material" does not include items excluded from explosives in §11-101 of the Public Safety Article when the items are used in their original configuration.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §139A(d).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In paragraph (2)(ii) of this subsection, the conjunction "or" is substituted for the former conjunction "and" to clarify that the reference to "natural gas" applies either to gas in pipelines or to gas in storage tanks. **
Incendiary material. -- **
1. "Incendiary material" means a flammable or combustible liquid. **
2. "Incendiary material" includes gasoline, acetone, benzene, butane, jet fuel, fuel oil, kerosene, and diesel fuel.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection formerly was Art. 27, §139A(e).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. No changes are made. **
Toxic material. -- **
1. "Toxic material" means material that is capable of causing death or serious bodily injury almost immediately on being absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested. **
2. "Toxic material" includes: **
  1. nerve gas, mustard gas, cyanide gas, chlorine gas, sulphuric acid, or their precursors; and **
  2. a biological substance containing a disease organism or microorganism.
1. REVISOR'S NOTE
2. This subsection is new language derived without substantive change from former Art. 27, §139A(f).
3. REVISOR'S NOTE
4. In paragraph (2) of this subsection, the former phrase "but is not limited to" is deleted in light of Art. 1, §30, which provides that the term "includes" is used "by way of illustration and not by way of limitation".

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §139A(a), (c)-(f); 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17; ch. 21, §1; 2005, ch. 201.

This subtitle does not apply to:
1. a member of the armed forces of the United States or of the National Guard or law enforcement personnel of the United States, the State, or a political subdivision of the State while acting within the scope of official duties;
2. an officer or employee of the United States, the State, or a political subdivision of the State who is authorized to handle a destructive device within the scope of official duties and who is acting within the scope of those duties;
3. a person authorized by law to possess explosive material, incendiary material, or toxic material who is acting within the scope of authority if the possession of the material is specifically regulated or licensed by law; or
4. a person who possesses smokeless or black gunpowder under Title 11, Subtitle 1 of the Public Safety Article and uses the gunpowder for loading or reloading small arms ammunition, antique firearms, or replicas of antique firearms.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §139B; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2003, ch. 17.

Prohibited. -- A person may not knowingly:
1. manufacture, transport, possess, control, store, sell, distribute, or use a destructive device; or
2. possess explosive material, incendiary material, or toxic material with intent to create a destructive device.
Penalty. --
1. A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 25 years or a fine not exceeding $ 250,000 or both.
2. A sentence imposed under this subsection may be separate from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for a crime based on the act or acts establishing the violation of this section.
3. In addition to any other penalty authorized by law, if the person convicted or found to have committed a delinquent act under this section is a minor, the court may order the Motor Vehicle Administration to initiate an action, under the motor vehicle laws, to suspend the driving privilege of the minor for a specified period not to exceed:
  1. for a first violation, 6 months; and
  2. for each subsequent violation, 1 year or until the person is 21 years old, whichever is longer.
Restitution. --
1. In addition to any penalty provided in subsection (b) of this section, a person convicted or found to have committed a delinquent act under this section may be ordered by the court to pay restitution to:
  1. the State, county, municipal corporation, bicounty agency, multicounty agency, county board of education, public authority, or special taxing district for actual costs reasonably incurred due to a violation of this section, including the search for, removal of, and damages caused by a destructive device; and
  2. the owner or tenant of a property for the actual value of any goods, services, or income lost as a result of the evacuation of the property or damage sustained due to a violation of this section.
2. 1. If a person convicted or found to have committed a delinquent act under this section is a minor, the court may order the minor, the minor's parent, or both to pay the restitution described in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
  2. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of Title 11, Subtitle 6 of the Criminal Procedure Article apply to an order of restitution under this paragraph.
3. This subsection does not limit the right of a person to restitution under Title 11, Subtitle 6 of the Criminal Procedure Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§139C, 139D; 2002, ch. 26, §2; 2006, ch. 429.

In general.
Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a custodian shall deny inspection of all records of a person authorized to:
1. sell, purchase, rent, or transfer a regulated firearm under title 5, subtitle 1 of the public safety article; or
2. carry, wear, or transport a handgun under title 5, subtitle 3 of the public safety article.
Required inspections.
A custodian shall allow inspection of firearm or handgun records by:
1. the individual named in the record; or
2. the attorney of record of the individual named in the record.
construction of section.
This section may not be construed to prohibit the department of state police or the department of public safety and correctional services from accessing firearm or handgun records in the performance of that department's official duty.

REVISOR'S NOTE: this section formerly was sg § 10â€"616(v).

HISTORY: An. Code 2014, Ch. 94.

In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
"Antique firearm" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
1. b-1.
  1. "Convicted of a disqualifying crime" includes:
    1. a case in which a person received probation before judgment for a crime of violence; and
    2. a case in which a person received probation before judgment in a domestically related crime as defined in §6-233 of the criminal procedure article.
  2. "Convicted of a disqualifying crime" does not include a case in which a person received a probation before judgment:
    1. for assault in the second degree, unless the crime was a domestically related crime as defined in § 6–233 of the criminal procedure article; or
    2. that was expunged under title 10, subtitle 1 of the criminal procedure article.
"Crime of violence" means:
1. abduction;
2. arson in the first degree;
3. assault in the first or second degree;
4. burglary in the first, second, or third degree;
5. carjacking and armed carjacking;
6. escape in the first degree;
7. kidnapping;
8. voluntary manslaughter;
9. maiming as previously proscribed under former Article 27, §386 of the Code;
10. mayhem as previously proscribed under former Article 27, §384 of the Code;
11. murder in the first or second degree;
12. rape in the first or second degree;
13. robbery;
14. robbery with a dangerous weapon;
15. sexual offense in the first, second, or third degree;
16. an attempt to commit any of the crimes listed in items (1) through (15) of this subsection; or
17. assault with intent to commit any of the crimes listed in items (1) through (15) of this subsection or a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than 1 year.
"Dealer" means a person who is engaged in the business of:
1. selling, renting, or transferring firearms at wholesale or retail; or
2. repairing firearms.
"Dealer's license" means a State regulated firearms dealer's license.
"Designated law enforcement agency" means a law enforcement agency that the Secretary designates to process applications to purchase regulated firearms for secondary sales.
"Disqualifying crime" means:
1. a crime of violence;
2. a violation classified as a felony in the State; or
3. a violation classified as a misdemeanor in the State that carries a statutory penalty of more than 2 years.
1. "Firearm" means:
  1. a weapon that expels, is designed to expel, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; or
  2. the frame or receiver of such a weapon.
2. "Firearm" includes a starter gun.
"Firearm applicant" means a person who makes a firearm application.
"Firearm application" means an application to purchase, rent, or transfer a regulated firearm.
"Fugitive from justice" means a person who has fled to avoid prosecution or giving testimony in a criminal proceeding.
"Habitual drunkard" means a person who has been found guilty of any three crimes under §21-902(a), (b), or (c) of the Transportation Article, one of which occurred in the past year.
"Habitual user" means a person who has been found guilty of two controlled dangerous substance crimes, one of which occurred in the past 5 years.
1. "Handgun" means a firearm with a barrel less than 16 inches in length.
2. "Handgun" includes signal, starter, and blank pistols.
"handgun qualification license" means a license issued by the secretary that authorizes a person to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun.
"Licensee" means a person who holds a dealer's license.
"qualified handgun instructor" means a certified firearms instructor who:
1. is recognized by the maryland police and correctional training commissions;
2. has a qualified handgun instructor license issued by the secretary; or
3. has a certification issued by a nationally recognized firearms organization.
"Regulated firearm" means:
1. a handgun; or
2. a firearm that is any of the following specific assault weapons or their copies, regardless of which company produced and manufactured that assault weapon:
  1. American Arms Spectre da Semiautomatic carbine;
  2. AK-47 in all forms;
  3. Algimec AGM-1 type semi-auto;
  4. AR 100 type semi-auto;
  5. AR 180 type semi-auto;
  6. Argentine L.S.R. semi-auto;
  7. Australian Automatic Arms SAR type semi-auto;
  8. Auto-Ordnance Thompson M1 and 1927 semi-automatics;
  9. Barrett light.50 cal. semi-auto;
  10. Beretta AR70 type semi-auto;
  11. Bushmaster semi-auto rifle;
  12. Calico models M-100 and M-900;
  13. CIS SR 88 type semi-auto;
  14. Claridge HI TEC C-9 carbines;
  15. Colt AR-15, CAR-15, and all imitations except Colt AR-15 Sporter H-BAR rifle;
  16. Daewoo MAX 1 and MAX 2, aka AR 100, 110C, K-1, and K-2;
  17. Dragunov Chinese made semi-auto;
  18. Famas semi-auto (.223 caliber);
  19. Feather AT-9 semi-auto;
  20. FN LAR and FN FAL assault rifle;
  21. FNC semi-auto type carbine;
  22. F.I.E./Franchi LAW 12 and SPAS 12 assault shotgun;
  23. Steyr-AUG-SA semi-auto;
  24. Galil models AR and ARM semi-auto;
  25. Heckler and Koch HK-91 A3, HK-93 A2, HK-94 A2 and A3;
  26. Holmes model 88 shotgun;
  27. Avtomat Kalashnikov semiautomatic rifle in any format;
  28. Manchester Arms "Commando" MK-45, MK-9;
  29. Mandell TAC-1 semi-auto carbine;
  30. Mossberg model 500 Bullpup assault shotgun;
  31. Sterling Mark 6;
  32. P.A.W.S. carbine;
  33. Ruger mini-14 folding stock model (.223 caliber);
  34. SIG 550/551 assault rifle (.223 caliber);
  35. SKS with detachable magazine;
  36. AP-74 Commando type semi-auto;
  37. Springfield Armory BM-59, SAR-48, G3, SAR-3, M-21 sniper rifle, M1A, excluding the M1 Garand;
  38. Street sweeper assault type shotgun;
  39. Striker 12 assault shotgun in all formats;
  40. Unique F11 semi-auto type;
  41. Daewoo USAS 12 semi-auto shotgun;
  42. UZI 9mm carbine or rifle;
  43. Valmet M-76 and M-78 semi-auto;
  44. Weaver Arms "Nighthawk" semi-auto carbine; or
  45. Wilkinson Arms 9mm semi-auto "Terry".
"Rent" means the temporary transfer for consideration of a regulated firearm that is taken from the property of the owner of the regulated firearm.
"Secondary sale" means a sale of a regulated firearm in which neither party to the sale:
1. is a licensee;
2. is licensed by the federal government as a firearms dealer;
3. devotes time, attention, and labor to dealing in firearms as a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of earning a profit through the repeated purchase and resale of firearms; or
4. repairs firearms as a regular course of trade or business.
"Secretary" means the Secretary of State Police or the Secretary's designee.
"Straw purchase" means a sale of a regulated firearm in which a person uses another, known as the straw purchaser, to:
1. complete the application to purchase a regulated firearm;
2. take initial possession of the regulated firearm; and
3. subsequently transfer the regulated firearm to the person.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§441(a)-(j), (l)-(n), (r)-(w), 442(f)(1), (h)(2)(i)1-3, 443(e)(4)(iii)1-3, (j)(2)(i)-(iii), 445(b)(1)(i)-(iii), (3), (d)(1)(i)-(iii), (3); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2017 ch. Chapter 804, 805

This subtitle does not apply to:
1. the transfer or possession of a regulated firearm or detachable magazine:
  1. for testing or experimentation authorized by the Secretary; and
  2. by a federally licensed gun manufacturer, dealer, or importer;
2. the sale, transfer, or possession of an antique firearm;
3. an unserviceable firearm sold, transferred, or possessed as a curio or museum piece;
4. law enforcement personnel of any unit of the federal government, members of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard, or law enforcement personnel of the State or any local agency in the State, while those personnel or members are acting within the scope of their official duties;
5. a regulated firearm modified to render it permanently inoperative;
6. purchases, sales, and transportation to or by a federally licensed gun manufacturer, dealer, or importer;
7. an organization that is required or authorized by federal law governing its specific business or activity to maintain firearms;
8. the receipt of a regulated firearm by inheritance, if the heir forwards to the Secretary a completed application to purchase or transfer that regulated firearm; or
9. a signal pistol or other visual distress signal that the United States Coast Guard approves as a marine safety device.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§441A, 447, 447A; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

This subtitle does not affect:
1. a sale or transfer for bona fide resale of a regulated firearm in the ordinary course of business of a licensee; or
2. a sale, rental, transfer, or the use of a regulated firearm by a person authorized or required to do so as part of the person's duties as a member of:
  1. an official police force or other law enforcement agency;
  2. the armed forces of the United States, including all official reserve organizations; or
  3. the Maryland National Guard.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(n); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2012, ch. 66, §1.

This subtitle supersedes any restriction that a local jurisdiction in the State imposes on a sale of a regulated firearm, and the State preempts the right of any local jurisdiction to regulate the sale of a regulated firearm.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(a); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

The Secretary shall adopt regulations to carry out this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442B(f), 448; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Required. -- A person must lawfully possess a dealer's license issued by the Secretary before the person engages in the business of selling, renting, or transferring regulated firearms.
One license for each place of business. -- One dealer's license is required for each place of business where regulated firearms are sold.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(a); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

In general. --
1. An applicant for a dealer's license shall:
  1. submit to the Secretary an application on the form that the Secretary provides; and
  2. pay to the Secretary an application fee of $ 50, payable to the Comptroller.
2. A refund or proration of the application fee is prohibited.
Required information. -- An application for a dealer's license shall contain:
1. the applicant's name, address, Social Security number, place and date of birth, height, weight, race, eye and hair color, and signature;
2. a clear and recognizable photograph of the applicant, unless the photograph has been submitted with a prior year's application;
3. a set of the applicant's fingerprints, unless the fingerprints have been submitted with a prior year's application; and
4. a statement by the applicant that the applicant:
  1. is a citizen of the United States;
  2. is at least 21 years old;
  3. has never been convicted of a disqualifying crime;
  4. has never been convicted of a violation classified as a common law crime and received a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
  5. is not a fugitive from justice;
  6. is not a habitual drunkard;
  7. is not addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is not a habitual user; and
  8. has never spent more than 30 consecutive days in a medical institution for treatment of a mental disorder, unless a physician's certificate issued within 30 days before the date of application is attached to the application, certifying that the applicant is capable of possessing a regulated firearm without undue danger to the applicant or to another.
Required warning. -- Each application for a dealer's license shall contain the following statement: "Any false information supplied or statement made in this application is a crime which may be punished by imprisonment for a period of not more than 3 years, or a fine of not more than $ 5,000 or both.".
Application of corporation. -- If an applicant is a corporation, a corporate officer who is a resident of the State shall complete and execute the application.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(b)(2), (3), (d), (e); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

"Central Repository" defined. -- In this section, "Central Repository" means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
Application required. -- The Secretary shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check for each applicant for a dealer's license.
Contents of application. -- As part of the application for a criminal history records check, the Secretary shall submit to the Central Repository:
1. two complete sets of the applicant's legible fingerprints taken on forms approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
2. the fee authorized under §10-221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records; and
3. the mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check.
Information forwarded to applicant and State Police. -- In accordance with §§10-201 through 10-234 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the applicant and the Secretary a printed statement of the applicant's criminal history record information.
Restrictions on information. -- Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:
1. is confidential and may not be disseminated; and
2. shall be used only for the licensing purpose authorized by this section.
Subject may contest contents. -- The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the printed statement issued by the Central Repository as provided in §10-223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(c); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

The Secretary shall conduct an investigation to determine the truth or falsity of the information supplied and the statements made in an application for a dealer's license.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(f); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

The Secretary shall disapprove an application for a dealer's license if:
1. the Secretary determines that the applicant supplied false information or made a false statement;
2. the Secretary determines that the application is not properly completed;
3. the Secretary receives a written notification from the applicant's licensed attending physician that the applicant suffers from a mental disorder and is a danger to the applicant or to another ; or
4. the secretary determines that the applicant intends that a person who is not eligible to be issued a dealer's license or whose dealer's license has been revoked or suspended:
  1. will participate in the management or operation of the business for which the license is sought; or
  2. holds a legal or equitable interest in the business for which the license is sought.
If the Secretary disapproves an application for a dealer's license, the Secretary shall notify the applicant in writing of:
1. the disapproval of the application; and
2. the reason the application was denied.
A person whose application for a dealer's license has been disapproved may not engage in the business of selling, renting, or transferring regulated firearms, unless the disapproval has been subsequently withdrawn by the Secretary or overruled by a court in accordance with subsection (d) of this section.
1. An applicant who is aggrieved because the Secretary has disapproved the application for a dealer's license may appeal to the circuit court of the county where the applicant's place of business is to be located.
2. The appeal must be filed not later than 30 days after the Secretary mails notification of disapproval to the applicant.
3. If the appeal is properly and timely filed, the court shall affirm or reverse the disapproval of the Secretary depending on whether the court finds that:
  1. the applicant supplied false information or made a false statement; or
  2. the application was not properly completed.
4. The Secretary or the applicant may appeal the decision of the circuit court to the Court of Special Appeals.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(f)-(h); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

Unless a dealer's license is renewed for a 1-year term as provided in this section, a dealer's license expires on the first June 30 after its effective date.
Applications for renewal. --
1. Before a dealer's license expires, the licensee periodically may renew it for an additional 1-year term, if the licensee:
  1. is otherwise entitled to be licensed;
  2. pays to the Secretary a renewal fee of $ 25, payable to the Comptroller; and
  3. submits to the Secretary a renewal application on the form that the Secretary provides.
2. A refund or proration of the renewal fee is prohibited.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(b); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Nontransferability of dealer's license. -- A dealer's license is not transferable.
Notice to Secretary of new place of business. -- Before moving a place of business, a licensee shall inform the Secretary and surrender the dealer's license.
New dealer's license for new place of business. -- If a cause to revoke the dealer's license does not exist, the Secretary shall issue a new dealer's license without charge covering the new place of business for the rest of the term of the surrendered dealer's license.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(b)(3); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

A licensee shall display conspicuously the dealer's license and any other license required by law at the licensee's place of business.
Identification of licensee and location. -- The dealer's license shall identify the licensee and the location of the licensee's place of business.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(a); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

1. The Secretary shall suspend a dealer's license if the licensee:
  1. is under indictment for a crime of violence;
  2. is arrested for a violation of this subtitle that prohibits the purchase or possession of a regulated firearm.
2. 1. the secretary may suspend a dealer's license if the licensee is not in compliance with the record keeping and reporting requirements of §5-145 of this subtitle.
  2. the secretary may lift a suspension under this paragraph after the licensee provides evidence that the record keeping violation has been corrected.
The Secretary shall revoke a dealer's license if:
1. it is discovered that false information has been supplied or false statements have been made in an application required by this subtitle; or
2. the licensee:
  1. is convicted of a disqualifying crime;
  2. is convicted of a violation classified as a common law crime and receives a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
  3. is a fugitive from justice;
  4. is a habitual drunkard;
  5. is addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is a habitual user;
  6. has spent more than 30 consecutive days in a medical institution for treatment of a mental disorder, unless the licensee produces a physician's certificate, issued after the last institutionalization and certifying that the licensee is capable of possessing a regulated firearm without undue danger to the licensee or to another;
  7. has knowingly or willfully manufactured, offered to sell, or sold a handgun not on the handgun roster in violation of §5-406 of this title; or
  8. has knowingly or willfully participated in a straw purchase of a regulated firearm.
If the Secretary suspends or revokes a dealer's license, the Secretary shall notify the licensee in writing of the suspension or revocation.
Effect of suspension or revocation. -- A person whose dealer's license is suspended or revoked may not engage in the business of selling, renting, or transferring regulated firearms, unless the suspension or revocation has been subsequently withdrawn by the Secretary or overruled by a court in accordance with §5-116 of this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(i)-(k); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

Right to hearing. --
1. A person whose dealer's license is suspended or revoked or who is fined for a violation of this subtitle and who is aggrieved by the action of the Secretary may request a hearing by writing to the Secretary within 30 days after the Secretary forwards notice to the applicant under §5-114(c) of this subtitle.
2. The Secretary shall grant the hearing within 15 days after receiving the request.
Application of contested case provisions. -- The hearing shall be held in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(l); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

Stay of revocation. -- A revocation may not take effect while an appeal is pending.
Application of contested case provisions. -- Any subsequent judicial review shall be held in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §443(l); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

A person must submit a firearm application in accordance with this subtitle before the person purchases, rents, or transfers a regulated firearm.

HISTORY: 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Exclusions. -- This section does not apply to:
1. a licensed firearms manufacturer;
2. a law enforcement officer or person who is retired in good standing from service with a law enforcement agency of the United States, the State, or a local law enforcement agency of the state;
3. a member or retired member of the armed forces of the United States, or the National Guard; or
4. a person purchasing, renting, or receiving an antique, curio, or relic firearm, as defined in federal law or in determinations published by the bureau of alcohol, tobacco, firearms and explosives.
In general. -- A dealer or any other person may not sell, rent, or transfer a handgun to a purchaser, lessee, or transferee unless the purchaser, lessee, or transferee presents to the dealer or other person a valid handgun qualification license issued to the purchaser, lessee, or transferee by the secretary under this section.
Requirements. -- A person may purchase, rent, or receive a handgun only if the person:
1. 1. possesses a valid handgun qualification license issued to the person by the secretary in accordance with this section;
  2. possesses valid credentials from a law enforcement agency or retirement credentials from a law enforcement agency;
  3. is an active or retired member of the armed forces of the united states, or the national guard and possesses a valid military identification card; or
  4. is purchasing, renting, or receiving an antique, curio, or relic firearm, as defined in federal law or in determinations published by the bureau of alcohol, tobacco, firearms and explosives; and
2. is not otherwise pro hibited from purchasing or possessing a handgun under state or federal law.
Qualifications for license. -- Subject to subsections (f) and (g) of this section, the secretary shall issue a handgun qualification license to a person who the secretary finds:
1. is at least 21 years old;
2. is a resident of the state;
3. except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, has demonstrated satisfactory completion, within 3 years prior to the submission of the application, of a firearms safety training course approved by the secretary that includes:
  1. a minimum of 4 hours of instruction by a qualified handgun instructor;
  2. classroom instruction on:
    1. state firearm law;
    2. home firearm safety; and
    3. handgun mechanisms and operation; and
  3. a firearms orientation component that demonstrates the person's safe operation and handling of a firearm; and
4. based on an investigation, is not prohibited by federal or state law from purchasing or possessing a handgun.
Waiver of training course. -- An applicant for a handgun qualification license is not required to complete a firearms safety training course under subsection (d) of this section if the applicant:
1. has completed a certified firearms training course approved by the secretary;
2. has completed a course of instruction in competency and safety in the handling of firearms prescribed by the department of natural resources under §10-301.1 of the natural resources article;
3. is a qualified handgun instructor;
4. is an honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the united states or the national guard;
5. is an employee of an armored car company and has a permit issued under title 5, subtitle 3 of the public safety article; or
6. lawfully owns a regulated firearm.
State and national criminal history records check for each applicant. --
1. in this subsection, "central repository" means the criminal justice information system central repository of the department of public safety and correctional services.
2. the secretary shall apply to the central repository for a state and national criminal history records check for each applicant for a handgun qualification license.
3. as part of the application for a criminal history records check, the secretary shall submit to the central repository:
  1. a complete set of the applicant's legible fingerprints taken in a format approved by the director of the central repository and the director of the federal bureau of investigation;
  2. the fee authorized under §10-221(b)(7) of the criminal procedure article for access to maryland criminal history records; and
  3. the mandatory processing fee required by the federal bureau of investigation for a national criminal history records check.
4. the central repository shall provide a receipt to the applicant for the fees paid in accordance with paragraph (3)(ii) and (iii) of this subsection.
5. in accordance with §§10-201 through 10-234 of the criminal procedure article, the central repository shall forward to the applicant and the secretary a printed statement of the applicant's criminal history information.
6. information obtained from the central repository under this section:
  1. is confidential and may not be disseminated; and
  2. shall be used only for the licensing purpose authorized by this section.
7. if criminal history record information is reported to the central repository after the date of the initial criminal history records check, the central repository shall provide to the department of state police licensing division a revised printed statement of the applicant's or licensee's state criminal history record.
Application; fee; other documentation. -- An applicant for a handgun qualification license shall submit to the secretary:
1. an application in the manner and format designated by the secretary;
2. a nonrefundable application fee to cover the costs to administer the program of up to $50;
3. 1. proof of satisfactory completion of:
    1. a firearms safety training course approved by the secretary; or
    2. a course of instruct ion in competency and safety in the handling of firearms prescribed by the department of natural resources under §10-301.1 of the natural resources article; or
  2. a valid firearms instructor certification;
4. any other identifying information or documentation required by the secretary; and
5. a statement made by the applicant under the penalty of perjury that the applicant is not prohibited under federal or state law from possessing a handgun.
Issuance of handgun qualification license. --
1. within 30 days after receiving a properly completed application, the secretary shall issue to the applicant:
  1. a handgun qualification license if the applicant is approved; or
  2. a written denial of the application that contains:
    1. the reason the application was denied; and
    2. a statement of the applicant's appealrights under subsection (l) of this section.
2. 1. an individual whose fingerprints have been submitted to the central repository, and whose application has been denied, may request that the record of the fingerprints be expunged by obliteration.
  2. proceedings to expunge a record under this paragraph shall be conducted in accordance with §10-105 of the criminal procedure article.
  3. on receipt of an orde r to expunge a fingerprint record, the central repository shall expunge by obliteration thefingerprints submitted as part of the application process.
  4. an individual may not be charged a fee for the expungement of a fingerprint record in a ccordance with this paragraph.
Expiration. -- A handgun qualification license issued under this section expires 10 years from the date of issuance.
1. the handgun qualification license may be renewed for successive periods of 10 years each if, at the time of an application for renewal, the applicant:
  1. possesses the qualifications for the issuance of the handgun qualification license; and
  2. submits a nonrefundable application fee to cover the costs to administer the program up to $20.
2. an applicant renewing a handgun qualification license under this subsection is not required to:
  1. complete the firearm s safety training course required in subsection (d)(3) of this section; or
  2. submit to a state and national criminal history records check as required in subsection (f) of this section.
Revocation. --
1. the secretary may revoke a handgun qualification license issued or renewed under this section on a finding that the licensee no longer satisfies the qualifications set forth in subsection (d) of this section.
2. a person holding a handgun qualification license that has been revoked by the secretary shall return the license to the secretary within 5 days after receipt of the notice of revocation.
Denial or revocation of license -- Hearing. --
1. a person whose original or renewal application for a handgun qualification license is denied or whose handgun qualification license is revoked, may submit a written request to the secretary for a hearing within 30 days after the date the written notice of the denial or revocation was sent to the aggrieved person.
2. a hearing under this section shall be granted by the secretary within 15 days after the request.
3. a hearing and any subsequent proceedings of judicial review under this section shall be conducted in accordance with title 10, subtitle 2 of the state government article.
4. a hearing under this section shall be held in the county of the legal residence of the aggrieved person.
Replacement of lost or stolen licenses. --
1. if an original or renewal handgun qualification license is lost or stolen, a person may submit a written request to the secretary for a replacement license.
2. unless the applicant is otherwise disqualified, the secretary shall issue a replacement handgun qualification license on receipt of a written request and a nonrefundable fee to cover the cost of replacement up to $20.
The secretary may adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this section.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427

A firearm applicant shall:
1. submit to a licensee or designated law enforcement agency a firearm application on the form that the Secretary provides; and
2. pay to the licensee or designated law enforcement agency an application fee of $ 10.
A firearm application shall contain:
1. the firearm applicant's name, address, Social Security number, place and date of birth, height, weight, race, eye and hair color, signature, driver's or photographic identification soundex number, occupation, and regulated firearm information for each regulated firearm to be purchased, rented, or transferred;
2. the date and time that the firearm applicant delivered the completed firearm application to the prospective seller or transferor;
3. a statement by the firearm applicant under the penalty of perjury that the firearm applicant:
  1. is at least 21 years old;
  2. has never been convicted of a disqualifying crime;
  3. has never been convicted of a violation classified as a common law crime and received a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
  4. is not a fugitive from justice;
  5. is not a habitual drunkard;
  6. is not addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is not a habitual user;
  7. does not suffer from a mental disorder as defined in §10-101(f)(2) of the health-general article and have a history of violent behavior against the firearm applicant or another;
  8. has never been found incompetent to stand trial under §3-106 of the criminal procedure article;
  9. has never been found not criminally responsible under §3-110 of the criminal procedure article;
  10. has never been voluntarily admitted for more than 30 consecutive days to a facility as defined in §10-101 of the health - general article;
  11. has never been involuntarily committed to a facility as defined in §10-101 of the health - general article;
  12. is not under the protection of a guardian appointed by a court under §13-201(c) or §13-705 of the estates and trusts article, except for cases in which the appointment of a guardian is solely are sult of a physical disability;
  13. is not a respondent against whom:
    1. a current non ex parte civil protective order has been entered under §4-506 of the family law article; or
    2. an order for protection, as defined in §4-508.1 of the family law article, has been issued by a court of another state or a native american tribe and is in effect; and
  14. if under the age of 30 years at the time of application, has not been adjudicated delinquent by a juvenile court for an act that would be a disqualifying crime if committed by an adult; and
4. unless the applicant is excluded under §5–117.1(a) of this subtitle the applicant's handgun qualification license number.
Each firearm application shall contain the following statement: "Any false information supplied or statement made in this application is a crime which may be punished by imprisonment for a period of not more than 3 years, or a fine of not more than $ 5,000, or both.".
If the firearm applicant is a corporation, a corporate officer who is a resident of the State shall complete and execute the firearm application.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(f)(1), (g), (h); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427; 2017, ch. 192, §1; 2017, ch. 189, §1.

Repealed by Acts 2013, ch. 427, §1, effective October 1, 2013.

Copy to Secretary. --
1. On receipt of a firearm application, a licensee or designated law enforcement agency shall promptly forward one copy of it to the Secretary by electronic means approved by the Secretary.
2. The copy of the firearm application forwarded to the Secretary shall contain the name, address, and signature of the prospective seller, lessor, or transferor.
Other copies. --
1. The prospective seller, lessor, or transferor shall keep one copy of the firearm application for not less than 3 years.
2. The firearm applicant is entitled to a copy of the firearm application.
Fees. --
1. The licensee or designated law enforcement agency shall forward the $ 10 application fee with the firearm application to the Secretary.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(e), (f)(2), (3); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2010, ch. 130; 2013, ch. 427.

Secretary to conduct investigation. -- On receipt of a firearm application, the Secretary shall conduct an investigation promptly to determine the truth or falsity of the information supplied and statements made in the firearm application.
Request for assistance. -- In conducting an investigation under this subsection, the Secretary may request the assistance of the Police Commissioner of Baltimore City, the chief of police in any county maintaining a police force, or the sheriff in a county not maintaining a police force.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(i); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Grounds. -- The Secretary shall disapprove a firearm application if:
1. the Secretary determines that the firearm applicant supplied false information or made a false statement;
2. the Secretary determines that the firearm application is not properly completed; or
3. the Secretary receives written notification from the firearm applicant's licensed attending physician that the firearm applicant suffers from a mental disorder and is a danger to the firearm applicant or to another.
Notice. --
1. If the Secretary disapproves a firearm application, the Secretary shall notify the prospective seller, lessor, or transferor in writing of the disapproval within 7 days after the date that the executed firearm application is forwarded to the Secretary by certified mail or facsimile machine.
2. After notifying the prospective seller, lessor, or transferor under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Secretary shall notify the prospective purchaser, lessee, or transferee in writing of the disapproval.
3. The date when the prospective seller, lessor, or transferor forwards the executed firearm application to the Secretary by certified mail or by facsimile machine is the first day of the 7-day period allowed for notice of disapproval to the prospective seller, lessor, or transferor.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(i); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Seven-day waiting period. -- A licensee may not sell, rent, or transfer a regulated firearm until after 7 days following the time a firearm application is executed by the firearm applicant, in triplicate, and the original is forwarded by the prospective seller or transferor to the Secretary.
Completion required in 90 days. -- A licensee shall complete the sale, rental, or transfer of a regulated firearm within 90 days after the firearm application was stamped by the Secretary as not being disapproved.
Incomplete transactions. --
1. If the sale, rental, or transfer of a regulated firearm is not completed within 90 days after the firearm application was stamped by the Secretary as not being disapproved, a licensee shall return the firearm application to the Secretary within 7 days.
2. The Secretary shall void a firearm application returned under paragraph (1) of this subsection as an incomplete sale, rental, or transfer.
Notification of completed transaction. --
1. 1. A licensee who sells, rents, or transfers a regulated firearm in compliance with this subtitle shall forward a copy of the written notification of the completed transaction to the Secretary within 7 days after delivery of the regulated firearm.
  2. The notification shall contain an identifying description of the regulated firearm, including its caliber, make, model, any manufacturer's serial number, and any other special or peculiar characteristic or marking by which the regulated firearm may be identified.
2. The Secretary shall maintain a permanent record of all notifications received of completed sales, rentals, and transfers of regulated firearms in the State.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(c), (l), (m); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Seven-day waiting period. --
1. A person who is not a licensee may not sell, rent, transfer, or purchase a regulated firearm until after 7 days following the time a firearm application is executed by the firearm applicant, in triplicate, and the original is forwarded by a licensee to the Secretary.
2. As an alternative to completing a secondary sale of a regulated firearm through a licensee, a prospective seller, lessor, or transferor and a prospective purchaser, lessee, or transferee may complete the transaction through a designated law enforcement agency.
Processing fee. -- A firearm applicant for a secondary sale of a regulated firearm through a licensee shall pay to the licensee a processing fee not exceeding $ 20.
Completion required in 90 days. -- A person shall complete the sale, rental, or transfer of a regulated firearm within 90 days after the firearm application was stamped by the Secretary as not being disapproved.
Incomplete transactions. --
1. If the sale, rental, or transfer of a regulated firearm is not completed within 90 days after the firearm application was stamped by the Secretary as not being disapproved, a person shall return the firearm application to the Secretary within 7 days.
2. The Secretary shall void a firearm application returned under paragraph (1) of this subsection as an incomplete sale, rental, or transfer.
Notification of completed transaction. --
1. 1. A person who sells, rents, or transfers a regulated firearm in compliance with this subtitle shall forward a copy of the written notification of the completed transaction to the Secretary within 7 days after delivery of the regulated firearm.
  2. The notification shall contain an identifying description of the regulated firearm, including its caliber, make, model, any manufacturer's serial number, and any other special or peculiar characteristic or marking by which the regulated firearm may be identified.
2. The Secretary shall maintain a permanent record of all notifications received of completed sales, rentals, and transfers of regulated firearms in the State.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(d), (l), (m); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Approved applications. -- An approved firearm application is valid only for the purchase, rental, or transfer of the regulated firearm listed in the firearm application.
On hold and disapproved applications. -- A licensee or other person may not sell, rent, or transfer a regulated firearm to a firearm applicant whose firearm application is placed on hold because of an open disposition of criminal proceedings against the firearm applicant or disapproved, unless the hold or disapproval has been subsequently withdrawn by the Secretary or overruled by a court in accordance with §5-127 of this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(j); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Right to hearing. --
1. A firearm applicant who is aggrieved by the action of the Secretary may request a hearing by writing to the Secretary within 30 days after the Secretary forwards notice to the firearm applicant under §5-122 of this subtitle.
2. The Secretary shall grant the hearing within 15 days after receiving the request.
Application of contested case provisions. -- The hearing shall be held in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
Venue. -- The hearing shall be held in the county of the legal residence of the firearm applicant.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(k); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Any subsequent judicial review shall be held in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(k)(2); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Scope of subsection. -- Subsection (b) of this section does not apply to:
1. a law enforcement agency;
2. an agency authorized to perform law enforcement duties;
3. a State or local correctional facility;
4. a private security company licensed to do business in the State;
5. the purchase of an antique firearm;
6. a purchase by a licensee;
7. the exchange or replacement of a regulated firearm by a seller for a regulated firearm purchased from the seller by the same person seeking the exchange or replacement within 30 days immediately before the exchange or replacement; or
8. a person whose regulated firearm is stolen or irretrievably lost and who considers it essential that the regulated firearm be replaced immediately, if:
  1. the person provides the licensee with a copy of the official police report or an official summary of the report, a copy of which shall be attached to the firearm application;
  2. the official police report or official summary of the report contains the name and address of the regulated firearm owner, a description of the regulated firearm, the location of the loss or theft, the date of the loss or theft, and the date when the loss or theft was reported to the law enforcement agency; and
  3. the loss or theft occurred within 30 days before the person's attempt to replace the regulated firearm, as reflected by the date of loss or theft on the official police report or official summary of the report.
One purchase limit. -- A person may not purchase more than one regulated firearm in a 30-day period.
On hold and disapproved applications. -- A licensee or other person may not sell, rent, or transfer a regulated firearm to a firearm applicant whose firearm application is placed on hold because of an open disposition of criminal proceedings against the firearm applicant or disapproved, unless the hold or disapproval has been subsequently withdrawn by the Secretary or overruled by a court in accordance with §5-127 of this subtitle.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§442A(a), (e), 449(c); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Requirements. -- Notwithstanding §5-128(b) of this subtitle, a person may purchase more than one regulated firearm in a 30-day period if:
1. the person applies for and the Secretary approves a multiple purchase; and
2. 1. the purchase of the regulated firearms is for a private collection or a collector series;
  2. the purchase of the regulated firearms is a bulk purchase from an estate sale;
  3. 1. the purchase of not more than two regulated firearms is a multiple purchase to take advantage of a licensee's discounted price available only for a multiple purchase; and
    2. the purchaser is prohibited from purchasing a regulated firearm during the following 30-day period unless approved under item (i) or (ii) of this item; or
  4. the purchase is for other purposes similar to items (i) through (iii) of this item.
Application. --
1. The application for a multiple purchase shall:
  1. list the regulated firearms to be purchased;
  2. state the purpose of the purchase of more than one regulated firearm in a 30-day period;
  3. be witnessed by a licensee or designated law enforcement agency; and
  4. be signed under the penalty of perjury by the firearm applicant.
2. The application for a multiple purchase of regulated firearms shall be attached to a completed firearm application and forwarded to the Secretary by a licensee or designated law enforcement agency.
Background investigation. -- On receipt of the firearm application and the application for a multiple purchase, the Secretary shall conduct a background investigation as required in §5-121 of this subtitle.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§442A(b)-(d), 449(c); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

"Gun show" defined. -- In this section, "gun show" means any organized gathering open to the public at which any firearm is displayed.
Scope of section. -- Subsections (c) through (h) of this section do not apply to a licensee.
Temporary transfer permit required. -- A person must obtain a temporary transfer permit issued by the Secretary before the person displays a regulated firearm for sale or transfer from a table or fixed display at a gun show.
Application for temporary transfer permit. --
1. An applicant for a temporary transfer permit shall: `
  1. submit to the Secretary an application on the form that the Secretary provides; and
  2. pay to the Secretary a fee of $ 10 for each calendar year.
2. Each additional temporary transfer permit during the same calendar year shall be issued without charge.
Required information. -- The application for a temporary transfer permit shall contain any information that is necessary for the Secretary to conduct a computer background investigation.
Required warning. -- Each application for a temporary transfer permit shall contain the following statement: "Any false information supplied or statement made in this application is a crime which may be punished by imprisonment for a period of not more than 3 years or a fine not more than $ 5,000 or both.".
Investigation of application; grounds for disapproval. --
1. The Secretary shall conduct an investigation to determine the truth or falsity of the information supplied and the statements made in the application for a temporary transfer permit.
2. If there is no reason to disapprove the application for a temporary transfer permit, the Secretary shall issue the permit within 7 days after the date of application.
3. The Secretary shall disapprove an application for a temporary transfer permit if the Secretary determines that:
  1. the applicant supplied false information or made a false statement; or
  2. the application is not properly completed.
4. If the Secretary disapproves an application for a temporary transfer permit, the Secretary shall notify the applicant in writing of the disapproval.
Label and display. --
1. A temporary transfer permit shall be clearly labeled "temporary" and shall include the statement: "This is not a license to engage in the business of selling firearms.".
2. The temporary transfer permit shall be placed in public view as part of any display of a regulated firearm.
Five permit limit. --
1. A person may not receive more than five temporary transfer permits during a single calendar year.
2. To display a regulated firearm for sale, trade, or transfer at more than five gun shows in a calendar year, a person shall obtain a dealer's license under this subtitle.
Sale or transfer of regulated firearm. -- A sale or transfer of a regulated firearm from a table or fixed display at a gun show is governed by §§5-103, 5-104, 5-117 through 5-129, and 5-136 of this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§441(k), 443A; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Authorized user" means the owner of a handgun or a person authorized by the owner to possess and use the handgun.
3. "External safety lock" means an external device that is:
  1. attached to a handgun with a key or combination lock; and
  2. designed to prevent a handgun from being discharged unless the device has been deactivated.
4. "Handgun" does not include a signal, starter, or blank pistol.
5. "Handgun Roster Board" means the Handgun Roster Board established under §5-404 of this title.
6. "Integrated mechanical safety device" means a disabling or locking device that is:
  1. built into a handgun; and
  2. designed to prevent the handgun from being discharged unless the device has been deactivated.
7. "Personalized handgun" means a handgun manufactured with incorporated design technology that:
  1. allows the handgun to be fired only by the authorized user; and
  2. prevents any of the safety characteristics of the handgun from being readily deactivated.
Scope of section. -- This section does not apply to:
1. the purchase, sale, or transportation of a handgun to or by a federally licensed gun dealer or manufacturer that provides or services a handgun for:
  1. personnel of any unit of the federal government;
  2. members of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard;
  3. law enforcement personnel of the State or any local law enforcement agency in the State while acting within the scope of their official duties; and
  4. an organization that is required by federal law governing its specific business or activity to maintain handguns and applicable ammunition;
2. a firearm modified to be permanently inoperative;
3. the sale or transfer of a handgun by a federally licensed gun dealer or manufacturer covered under item (1) of this subsection;
4. the sale or transfer of a handgun by a federally licensed gun dealer or manufacturer to a lawful customer outside the State; or
5. an antique firearm.
Restriction on sale, rent, or transfer of handguns. --
1. A dealer may not sell, offer for sale, rent, or transfer in the State a handgun manufactured on or before December 31, 2002, unless the handgun is sold, offered for sale, rented, or transferred with an external safety lock.
2. On or after January 1, 2003, a dealer may not sell, offer for sale, rent, or transfer in the State a handgun manufactured on or after January 1, 2003, unless the handgun has an integrated mechanical safety device.
Report. --
1. The Handgun Roster Board annually shall:
  1. review the status of personalized handgun technology; and
  2. on or before July 1, report its findings to the Governor and, in accordance with §2-1246 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly.
2. In reviewing the status of personalized handgun technology under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Handgun Roster Board shall consider:
  1. the number and variety of models and calibers of personalized handguns that are available for sale;
  2. each study, analysis, or other evaluation of personalized handguns conducted or commissioned by:
    1. the National Institute of Justice;
    2. a federal, State, or local law enforcement laboratory; or
    3. any other entity with an expertise in handgun technology; and
  3. any other information that the Handgun Roster Board considers relevant.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442C; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Preemption by State. -- This section supersedes any restriction that a local jurisdiction in the State imposes on the possession by a private party of a regulated firearm, and the State preempts the right of any local jurisdiction to regulate the possession of a regulated firearm.
Possession of regulated firearm prohibited. -- Subject to §5-133.3 of this subtitle, a person may not possess a regulated firearm if the person:
1. has been convicted of a disqualifying crime;
2. has been convicted of a violation classified as a common law crime and received a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
3. is a fugitive from justice;
4. is a habitual drunkard;
5. is addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is a habitual user;
6. suffers from a mental disorder as defined in §10-101(f)(2) of the health - general article and has a history of violent behavior against the person or another;
7. has been found incompetent to stand trial under §3-106 of the criminal procedure article;
8. has been found not criminally responsible under §3-110 of the criminal procedure article;
9. has been involuntarily committed to a facility as defined in §10-101 of the health - general article;
10. is under the protect ion of a guardian appointed by a court under §13-201(c) or §13-705 of the estates and trusts article, except for cases in which the appointment of a guardian is solely a result of a physical disability;
11. except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, is a respondent against whom:
  1. a current non ex parte civil protective order has been entered under §4-506 of the family law article; or
  2. an order for protection, as defined in §4-508.1 of the family law article, has been issued by a court of another state or a native american tribe and is in effect; or
12. if under the age of 30 years at the time of possession, has been adjudicated delinquent by a juvenile court for an act that would be a disqualifying crime if committed by an adult.
Penalty for possession by person convicted of crime of violence. --
1. A person may not possess a regulated firearm if the person was previously convicted of:
  1. a crime of violence;
  2. a violation of §5-602, §5-603, §5-604, §5-605, §5-612, §5-613, or §5-614 or §5-621 or §5-622 of the Criminal Law Article; or
  3. an offense under the laws of another state or the United States that would constitute one of the crimes listed in item (i) or (ii) of this paragraph if committed in this State.
2. 1. Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, a person who violates this subsection is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not exceeding 15 years.
  2. The court may not suspend any part of the mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years.
  3. Except as otherwise provided in §4-305 of the Correctional Services Article, the person is not eligible for parole during the mandatory minimum sentence.
3. At the time of the commission of the offense, if a period of more than 5 years has elapsed since the person completed serving the sentence for the most recent conviction under paragraph (1)(i) or (ii) of this subsection, including all imprisonment, mandatory supervision, probation, and parole:
  1. the imposition of the mandatory minimum sentence is within the discretion of the court; and
  2. the mandatory minimum sentence may not be imposed unless the State's Attorney notifies the person in writing at least 30 days before trial of the State's intention to seek the mandatory minimum sentence.
4. Each violation of this subsection is a separate crime.
5. a person convicted under this subsection is not prohibited from participating in a drug treatment program under §8–507 of the h ealth – g eneral a rticle because of the length of the sentence
Possession by person under age of 21 years prohibited; exceptions. --
1. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a person who is under the age of 21 years may not possess a regulated firearm.
2. Unless a person is otherwise prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm, this subsection does not apply to:
  1. the temporary transfer or possession of a regulated firearm if the person is:
    1. under the supervision of another who is at least 21 years old and who is not prohibited by State or federal law from possessing a firearm; and
    2. acting with the permission of the parent or legal guardian of the transferee or person in possession;
  2. the transfer by inheritance of title, and not of possession, of a regulated firearm;
  3. a member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard while performing official duties;
  4. the temporary transfer or possession of a regulated firearm if the person is:
    1. participating in marksmanship training of a recognized organization; and
    2. under the supervision of a qualified instructor;
  5. a person who is required to possess a regulated firearm for employment and who holds a permit under Subtitle 3 of this title; or
  6. the possession of a firearm for self-defense or the defense of others against a trespasser into the residence of the person in possession or into a residence in which the person in possession is an invited guest.
Exception if carrying civil protective order. -- This section does not apply to a respondent transporting a regulated firearm if the respondent is carrying a civil protective order requiring the surrender of the regulated firearm and:
1. the regulated firearm is unloaded;
2. the respondent has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the regulated firearm is being transported in accordance with the civil protective order; and
3. the respondent transports the regulated firearm directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station.
this section does not apply to the carrying or transporting of a regulated firearm by a person who is carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the regulated firearm if:
1. the firearm is unloaded;
2. the person has notified a law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the firearm is being transported in accordance with the order ; and
3. the person transports the firearm directly to a state or local law enforcement official agency or a federally licensed firearms dealer

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§445(a), (d), (e), 449(e); 2003, ch. 5, §2; ch. 17; 2010, ch. 712; 2011, ch. 65, §5; chs. 164, 165, 343; 2012, chs. 67, 276, 277; 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 ch. 251; Amdended 2018 ch. 143

"Ammunition" defined. -- In this section, "ammunition" means a cartridge, shell, or any other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.
In general. -- A person may not possess ammunition if the person is prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm under §5-133 (b) or (c) of this subtitle.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $1000 or both.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

Definitions. --
1. In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
2. "Facility" has the meaning stated in §10-101 of the health - general article.
3. "NICS Index" means the federal bureau of investigation's national instant criminal background check system.
Reporting by courts. --
1. A court shall promptly report information required in paragraph (2) of this subsection through a secure data portal approved by the department of public safety and correctional services if a court:
  1. determines that a person is not criminally responsible under §3-110 of the criminal procedure article;
  2. finds that a person is incompetent to stand trial under §3-106 of the criminal procedure article; or
  3. finds under §13-201(c) or §13-705 of the estates and trust article that a person should be under the protection of a guardian, except for cases in which the appointment of a guardian is solely a result of a physical disability.
2. On a finding or determination under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the following information shall be reported to the NICS index:
  1. the name and identifying information of the person; and
  2. the date of the dete rmination or finding.
Reports of admissions to health facilities. --
1. A facility shall report information required in paragraph (2) of this subsection regarding a person admitted to the facility under §10-609 of the health - general article or committed to the facility under title 10, subtitle 6, part iii of the health - general article to the NICS index through a secure data portal approved by the department of public safety and correctional services, if:
  1. the person has been admitted to a facility for 30 consecutive days or more; or
  2. the person has been involuntarily committed to a facility.
2. On admission to a facility the following information shall be reported to the NICS index:
  1. the name and identifying information of the person admitted or committed;
  2. the date the person was admitted or committed to the facility; and
  3. the name of the facility to which the person was admitted or committed.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

"Health Department" defined. -- In this section, "health department" means the department of health and mental hygiene.
In general. -- A person subject to a regulated firearms disqualification under §5-133(b)(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), or (11) of this subtitle, a rifle or shotgun disqualification under §5-205(b)(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), or (11) of this title, or prohibited from the shipment, transportation, possession, or receipt of a fire arm by 18 u.s.c. §§922(d)(4) or (g)(4) as a result of an adjudication or commitment that occurred in the state may be authorized to possess a firearm if:
1. the person is not subject to another firearms restriction under state or federal law; and
2. the health department, in accordance with this section, determines that the person may possess a firearm.
Application. -- A person who seeks relief from a firearms disqualification shall file an application with the health department in the form and manner set by the health department.
Required information. -- An application for relief from a firearms disqualification shall include:
1. a complete and accurate statement explaining the reason why the applicant is prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm under §5-133(b)(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), or (11) of this subtitle or a rifle or shotgun under §5-205(b)(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), or (11) of this title, or is prohibited from the shipment, transportation, possession, or receipt of a fire arm by 18 u.s.c. §§922(d)(4) or (g)(4) as a result of an adjudication or commitment that occurred in the state;
2. a statement why the applicant should be relieved from the prohibition described in item (1) of this subsection;
3. if the applicant is subject to a prohibition described in item (1) of this subsection, a certificate issued within 30 days of the submission of the application on a form approved by the health department and signed by an individual licensed in the state as a physician who is board certified in psychiatry or as a psychologist stating:
  1. the length of time that the applicant has not had symptoms that cause the applicant to be a danger to the applicant or others, or, if the disqualification relates to an intellectual disability, the length of time that the applicant has not engaged in behaviors that cause the applicant to be a danger to the applicant or others;
  2. the length of time that the applicant has been compliant with the treatment plan for the applicant's mental illness, or, if the disqualificat ion relates to an intellectual disability, the length of time that the applicant has been compliant with any behavior plan or behavior management plan;
  3. an opinion as to whether the applicant, because of mental illness, would be a danger to the applicant if allowed to possess a firearm and a statement of reasons for the opinion; and
  4. an opinion as to whether the applicant, because of mental illness, would be a danger to another person or poses a risk to public safety if allowed to possess a firearm;
4. if the applicant is prohibited from possessing a firearm under §5-133(b)(11) of this subtitle or §5-205(b)(11) of this title:
  1. a copy of all pleadings, affidavits, and certificates submitted into evidence at the guardianship proceeding; and
  2. all orders issued by the court relating to the guardianship, including, if applicable, an order indicating that the guardianship is no longer in effect;
5. a signed authorization, on a form approved by the health department, allowing the health department to access any relevant health care, mental health, disability, guardianship, and criminal justice records, including court ordered or required mental health records, of the applicant for use in determining whether the applicant should be relieved from a firearms disqualification;
6. three statements signed and dated within 30 days of submission to the health department on a form designated by the health department attesting to the applicant's reputation and character relevant to firearm ownership or possession including:
  1. at least two statements provided by an individual who is not related to the applicant; and
  2. contact information for each individual providing a statement; and
7. any other information required by the health department.
Grounds for denial of application. -- The health department may not approve an application under this section if a determination is made that:
1. the applicant supplied incomplete or false information or made a false statement;
2. the application is not properly completed; or
3. on review of the application and supporting documentation and any other information relating to the application requested by the health department, including any criminal history records and mental health records of the applicant, the applicant has not shown by a preponderance of the evidence that the applicant will be unlikely to act in a manner dangerous to the applicant or to public safety and that granting a license to possess a regulated firearm or authorizing the possession of a rifle or shotgun would not be contrary to the public interest.
Approval. --
1. if the health department determines that the application shall be approved, the health department shall provide the applicant with a certificate affirming the applicant's mental competence to possess a firearm.
2. a certificate provided under paragraph (1) of this subsection or a written statement that the individual is not mentally competent to possess a firearm shall be provided to the applicant within 60 days from the health department's receipt of a completed application, which includes any records necessary to review an application.
3. a certificate issued under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be presented to the department of state police as evidence of the applicant's eligibility to possess a firearm.
Hearing on denial of application. --
1. an applicant who is a ggrieved by the action of the health department under subsection (e) of this section may request a hearing in writing to the secretary of health and mental hygiene within 30 days after the health department mails notice of the decision to the applicant.
2. 1. the hearing requested under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be held in accordance with title 10, subtitle 2 of the state government article within 60 days after the health department receives the request.
  2. at the hearing, the information described in subsections (d) and (e) of this section shall be considered and used to determine whether the applicant, if allowed to possess a firearm, would not be likely to act in a manner dangerous to the public safety and whether granting the relief would not be contrary to the public interest.
3. 1. judicial review of the determination on an application under this section for relief from a firearms prohibition may be sought in accordance with §§10-222 and 10-223 of the state government article.
  2. notwithstanding the provisions of §10-222 of the state government article, the circuit court may give deference to the final decision of the health department and may in its discretion receive additional evidence that it determines to be necessary to conduct an adequate review.
Board of Review of Health Department does not have jurisdiction to review final decision. -- The board of review of the health department does not have jurisdiction to review a final decision of the health department under this section.
Subsequent hearing within one year prohibited. -- After a determination on the merits of a hearing requested under this section, an applicant may not request a subsequent hearing within 1 year after the completion of the hearing process and any judicial review of the administrative decision.
Regulations. -- The secretary of health and mental hygiene may adopt regulations establishing fees to cover the administrative costs associated with the implementation of this section.
Immunity. -- An individual licensed in the state as a physician who is board certified in psychiatry, or a psychologist who, in good faith and with reasonable grounds, acts in compliance with this section, may not be held civilly or criminally liable for actions authorized by this section.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

Preemption by State. -- This section supersedes any restriction that a local jurisdiction in the State imposes on the transfer by a private party of a regulated firearm, and the State preempts the right of any local jurisdiction to regulate the transfer of a regulated firearm.
Sale, rental, loan, or transfer of regulated firearm prohibited. -- A dealer or other person may not sell, rent, loan, or transfer a regulated firearm to a purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee who the dealer or other person knows or has reasonable cause to believe:
1. is under the age of 21 years, unless the regulated firearm is loaned to a borrower who may possess the regulated firearm under Section 5-133(d) of this subtitle;
2. has been convicted of a disqualifying crime;
3. has been convicted of a conspiracy to commit a felony;
4. has been convicted of a violation classified as a common law crime and received a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
5. is a fugitive from justice;
6. is a habitual drunkard;
7. is addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is a habitual user;
8. suffers from a mental disorder as defined in Section 10-101(i)(2) of the Health - General Article, and has a history of violent behavior against the purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee or another, unless the purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee possesses a physician's certificate that the recipient is capable of possessing a regulated firearm without undue danger to the purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee or to another;
9. has been confined for more than 30 consecutive days to a facility as defined in Section 10-101 of the Health - General Article, unless the purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee possesses a physician's certificate that the recipient is capable of possessing a regulated firearm without undue danger to the purchaser, lessee, borrower, or transferee or to another;
10. is a respondent against whom a current non ex parte civil protective order has been entered under Section 4-506 of the Family Law Article;
11. if under the age of 30 years at the time of the transaction, has been adjudicated delinquent by a juvenile court for an act that would be a disqualifying crime if committed by an adult;
12. is visibly under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
13. is a participant in a straw purchase;
14. subject to subsection (c) of this section for a transaction under this subsection that is made on or after January 1, 2002, has not completed a certified firearms safety training course conducted free of charge by the Police Training and Standards Commission or that meets standards established by the Police Training and Standards Commission under Section 3-207 of this article; or
15. intends to use the regulated firearm to:
  1. commit a crime; or
  2. cause harm to the purchaser, lessee, transferee, or recipient or another person.
Exemption from certified firearms training course requirement. -- A person is not required to complete a certified firearms safety training course under subsection (b)(14) of this section if the person:
1. has already completed a certified firearms safety training course required under subsection (b)(14) of this section;
2. is a law enforcement officer of the State or any local law enforcement agency in the State;
3. is a member, retired member, or honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard;
4. is a member of an organization that is required by federal law governing its specific business or activity to maintain handguns and applicable ammunition;
5. has been issued a permit to carry a handgun under Subtitle 3 of this title; or
6. is the borrower of a firearm.
Sale, rental, or transfer of regulated firearm to minor prohibited. --
1. A person may not sell, rent, or transfer:
  1. ammunition solely designed for a regulated firearm to a person who is under the age of 21 years; or
  2. 1. a firearm other than a regulated firearm to a minor;
    2. ammunition for a firearm to a minor;
    3. pepper mace, which is an aerosol propelled combination of highly disabling irritant based products and is also known as oleo-resin capsicum (O.C.) spray, to a minor; or
    4. another deadly weapon to a minor.
2. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, Sections 441(p), 445(a), (b), (b-1), (c), 449(a); 2003, ch. 5, Section 2; 2014, ch. 45 ; 2015, ch. 22, Section 5; 2016, ch. 8, Section 5; 2019, ch. 458 .

A regulated firearm that is sold, rented, transferred, possessed, received, or purchased in violation of this subtitle may be:
1. seized by a law enforcement agency as contraband; and
2. after a finding of guilt, disposed of in accordance with Title 13, Subtitle 2 of the Criminal Procedure Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §445B; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Scope of section. --
1. This section does not apply to a person who purchases a regulated firearm as a gift if:
  1. the regulated firearm is a gift to a resident of the State; and
  2. 1. both the purchaser and recipient of the gift comply with the requirements of this subtitle that relate to the possession, sale, rental, receipt, transfer, or purchase of a regulated firearm; or
    2. if the gift is in the form of a gift certificate, only the recipient of the gift need comply with the requirements of this subtitle that relate to the possession, sale, rental, receipt, transfer, or purchase of a regulated firearm.
2. If the regulated firearm is a gift to the purchaser's spouse, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, or child, the recipient shall:
  1. complete an application to purchase or transfer a regulated firearm; and
  2. forward the application to the Secretary within 5 days after receipt of the regulated firearm.
3. The Secretary shall waive the $ 10 application fee required under §5-118(a)(2) of this subtitle for a gift purchased in accordance with this subsection.
Prohibited. -- A person may not knowingly or willfully participate in a straw purchase of a regulated firearm.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §442(b); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Requirements for purchase. -- A person who seeks to own a regulated firearm and purchases the regulated firearm from an out-of-state federally licensed gun importer, manufacturer, or dealer shall:
1. have the federally licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer ship the regulated firearm to a licensee for processing; and
2. comply with §§5-103, 5-104, 5-117 through 5-129, and 5-136 of this subtitle.
Waiver of requirements. -- If a person purchases a regulated firearm for use within the scope of the person's official duties, the Secretary may waive the 7-day waiting period under §5-124 of this subtitle for:
1. law enforcement personnel of any unit of the federal government;
2. members of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard; or
3. law enforcement personnel of the State or any local agency in the State.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §445A; 2003, ch. 5, §2; ch. 21, §7.

A person may not possess, sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of a stolen regulated firearm if the person knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the regulated firearm has been stolen.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §446; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A person may not knowingly give false information or make a material misstatement in a firearm application or in an application for a dealer's license.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §449(b); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A dealer or other person may not transport a regulated firearm into the State for the purpose of unlawfully selling or trafficking of the regulated firearm.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $ 25,000 or both.
Separate crime. -- Each violation of this section is a separate crime.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §449(d); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A dealer or other person may not be a knowing participant in a straw purchase of a regulated firearm to a minor or to a person prohibited by law from possessing a regulated firearm.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $ 25,000 or both.
Separate crime. -- Each violation of this section is a separate crime.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §449(d); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A person may not obliterate, remove, change, or alter the manufacturer's identification mark or number on a firearm.
Presumption. -- If on trial for a violation of this section possession of the firearm by the defendant is established, the defendant is presumed to have obliterated, removed, changed, or altered the manufacturer's identification mark or number on the firearm.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §444; 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2011, ch. 343.

In general. --
1. a person who moves into the state with the intent of becoming a resident shall register all regulated firearms with the secretary within 30 90 days after establishing residency.
2. the secretary shall prepare and ,on request of an applicant, provide an application form for registration under this section.
Required information in application. -- an application for registration under this section shall contain:
1. the make, model, manufacturer's serial number, caliber, type, barrel length, finish, and country of origin of each regulated firearm; and
2. the firearm applicant's name, address, social security number, place and date of birth, height, weight, race, eye and hair color, signature, driver's or photographic identification soundex number, and occupation.
Fee. -- An application for registration filed with the secretary of state police shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable total registration fee of $15, regardless of the number of firearms registered.
Confidentiality. -- Registration data provided under this section is not open to public inspection.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

Prohibited. -- Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a dealer or other person may not:
1. knowingly participate in the illegal sale, rental, transfer, purchase, possession, or receipt of a regulated firearm in violation of this subtitle; or
2. knowingly violate §5-142 of this subtitle.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $ 10,000 or both.
Separate crime. -- Each violation of this section is a separate crime.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §449(f); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2011, chs. 164, 165, 343; 2013, ch. 427.

In general. --
1. a licensed dealer shall keep records of all receipts, sales, and other dispositions of firearms affected in connection with the licensed dealer's business.
2. the secretary shall adopt regulations specifying:
  1. subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, the information that the records shall contain;
  2. the time period for which the records are to be kept; and
  3. the form in which the records are to be kept.
3. the records shall include:
  1. the name and address of each person from whom the dealer acquires a firearm and to whom the dealer sells or otherwise disposes of a firearm;
  2. a precise description, including make, model, caliber, and serial number of each firearm acquired, sold, or otherwise disposed of; and
  3. the date of each acquisition, sale, or other disposition.
4. records maintained under 18 u.s.c. §923(g)(1)(a) may be used to satisfy the requirements of this section, if the secretary is granted access to those records.
Submission of information to Secretary. --
1. when required by a letter issued by the secretary, a licensee shall submit to the secretary the information required to be kept under subsection (a) of this section for the time periods specified by the secretary.
2. the secretary shall determine the form and method by which the records shall be maintained.
Discontinuance and succession of business. -- When a firearms business is discontinued and succeeded by a new licensee, the records required to be kept under this section shall reflect the business discontinuance and succession and shall be delivered to the successor licensee.
Response required within 48 hours of request. --
1. a licensee shall respond within 48 hours after receipt of a request from the secretary for information contained in the records required to be kept under this section when the information is requested in connection with a bona fide criminal in vestigation.
2. the information requested under this subsection shall be provided or ally or in writing, as required by the secretary.
3. the secretary may implement a system by which a licensee can positively establish that a person requesting information by telephone is authorized by the secretary to request the information.
Availability of information to federal, State, or local law enforcement agency. -- The secretary may make available to a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency any information that the secretary obtains under this section relating to the identities of persons who have unlawfully purchased or received firearms.
Inspections. -- The secretary:
1. shall inspect the in ventory and records of a licensed dealer at least once every 2 years; and
2. may inspect the inventory and records at any time during the normal business hours of the licensed dealer's business.
Penalties. --
1. a person who violates this section is subject to a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000 imposed by the secretary.
2. for a second or subsequent offense, a person who knowingly violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.
3. the penalties provide d in this subsection are not intended to apply to inconsequential or inadvertent errors.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

Dealer to inform purchasers of reporting requirements. -- A dealer or any other person who sells or transfers a regulated firearm shall notify the purchaser or recipient of the regulated firearm at the time of purchase or transfer that the purchaser or recipient is required to report a lost or stolen regulated firearm to the local law enforcement agency as required under subsection (b) of this section.
Duties of owner to report. -- If a regulated firearm is lost or stolen, the owner of the regulated firearm shall report the loss or theft to the local law enforcement agency within 72 hours after the owner first discovers the loss or theft.
Duties of local law enforcement agency on receipt of report. -- On receipt of a report of a lost or stolen regulated firearm, a local law enforcement agency shall report to the secretary and enter into the national crime information center (ncic) database, to the extent known, the caliber, make, model, manufacturer, and serial number of the regulated firearm and any other distinguishing number or identification mark on the regulated firearm.
Violations; penalties. --
1. a knowing and willful first - time violation of this section is a civil offense punishable by a fine not exceeding $500.
2. a person who knowingly and willfully violates this section for a second or subsequent time is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.
Civil remedies or criminal prosecutions. -- The imposition of a civil or criminal penalty under this section does not preclude the pursuit of any other civil remedy or criminal prosecution authorized by law.

HISTORY: 2013, ch. 427.

In general. -- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
Rifle. -- "Rifle" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
Short-barreled rifle. -- "Short-barreled rifle" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
Short-barreled shotgun. -- "Short-barreled shotgun" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
Shotgun. -- "Shotgun" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §481C(a)(1)-(5); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

This subtitle does not apply to a short-barreled rifle or short-barreled shotgun that is:
1. an antique firearm as defined in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article;
2. a device designed or redesigned for use other than as a weapon;
3. a device designed or redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device; or
4. a firearm that cannot:
  1. discharge a projectile by an explosive; and
  2. be readily restored to a firing condition.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §481C(a)(6); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A person may not possess a short-barreled rifle or short-barreled shotgun unless:
1. the person, while on official business is:
  1. a member of the law enforcement personnel of the federal government, the State, or a political subdivision of the State;
  2. a member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard while on duty or traveling to or from duty;
  3. a member of the law enforcement personnel of another state or a political subdivision of another state, while temporarily in this State;
  4. a warden or correctional officer of a correctional facility in the State; or
  5. a sheriff or a temporary or full-time deputy sheriff; or
2. the short-barreled shotgun or short-barreled rifle has been registered with the federal government in accordance with federal law.
Burden of proof. -- In a prosecution under this section, the defendant has the burden of proving the lawful registration of the short-barreled shotgun or short-barreled rifle.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $ 5,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §481(b)-(d); 2003, ch. 5, §2; ch. 17.

"Adjacent state" defined. -- In this section, "adjacent state" means Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia.
Resident of this State in adjacent state. -- If a resident of this State is eligible to purchase a rifle or shotgun under the laws of an adjacent state, the resident may purchase a rifle or shotgun from a federally licensed gun dealer in the adjacent state.
Resident of adjacent state in this State. -- If a resident of an adjacent state is eligible to purchase a rifle or shotgun under the laws of this State, the resident may purchase a rifle or shotgun from a federally licensed gun dealer in this State.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§481A, 481B; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Applicability. -- This subtitle does not apply to a rifle or shotgun that is an antique firearm as defined in Section 4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
In general. -- A person may not possess a rifle or shotgun if the person:
1. has been convicted of a disqualifying crime as defined in Section 5-101 of this title;
2. has been convicted of a violation classified as a crime under common law and received a term of imprisonment of more than 2 years;
3. is a fugitive from justice;
4. is a habitual drunkard as defined in Section 5-101 of this title;
5. is addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or is a habitual user as defined in Section 5-101 of this title;
6. suffers from a mental disorder as defined in Section 10-101(i)(2) of the Health - General Article and has a history of violent behavior against the person or another;
7. has been found incompetent to stand trial under Section 3-106 of the Criminal Procedure Article;
8. has been found not criminally responsible under Section 3-110 of the Criminal Procedure Article;
9. has been voluntarily admitted for more than 30 consecutive days to a facility as defined in Section 10-101 of the Health - General Article;
10. has been involuntarily committed to a facility as defined in Section 10-101 of the Health - General Article;
11. is under the protection of a guardian appointed by a court under Section 13-201(c) or Section 13-705 of the Estates and Trusts Article, except for cases in which the appointment of a guardian is solely a result of a physical disability;
12. except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, is a respondent against whom:
  1. a current non ex parte civil protective order has been entered under Section 4-506 of the Family Law Article; or
  2. an order for protection, as defined in Section 4-508.1 of the Family Law Article, has been issued by a court of another state or a Native American tribe and is in effect; or
13. if under the age of 30 years at the time of possession, has been adjudicated delinquent by a juvenile court for an act that would be a disqualifying crime if committed by an adult.
Exemptions. -- This section does not apply to:
1. a person transporting a rifle or shotgun if the person is carrying a civil protective order requiring the surrender of the rifle or shotgun and:
  1. the rifle or shotgun is unloaded;
  2. the person has notified the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the rifle or shotgun is being transported in accordance with the civil protective order; and
  3. the person transports the rifle or shotgun directly to the law enforcement unit, barracks, or station; or
2. the carrying or transporting of a rifle or shotgun by a person who is carrying a court order requiring the surrender of the rifle or shotgun, if:
  1. the rifle or shotgun is unloaded;
  2. the person has notified a law enforcement unit, barracks, or station that the rifle or shotgun is being transported in accordance with the order; and
  3. the person transports the rifle or shotgun directly to a State or local law enforcement agency or a federally licensed firearms dealer.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.
Relief from disqualification. -- A person who is disqualified from owning a rifle or shotgun under subsection (b)(6), (7), (8), (9), (10), or (11) of this section may seek relief from the disqualification in accordance with Section 5-133.3 of this title.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, Section 481D; 2003, ch. 5, Section 2; 2013, ch. 427 ; 2015, ch. 22, Section 5; 2018, ch. 251 .

In general. -- A person may not possess a rifle or shotgun if the person was previously convicted of:
1. a crime of violence as defined in §5-101 of this title;
2. a violation of §5-602, §5-603, §5-604, §5-605, §5-612, §5-613, or §5-614 of the Criminal Law Article; or
3. an offense under the laws of another state or the United States that would constitute one of the crimes listed in item (1) or (2) of this subsection if committed in this State.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 15 years.
Violation is separate crime. -- Each violation of this subsection is a separate crime.

HISTORY: 2011, chs. 164, 165; 2012, chs. 276, 277; 2013, ch. 427.

In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
"Handgun" has the meaning stated in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article.
"Permit" means a permit issued by the Secretary to carry, wear, or transport a handgun.
"qualified handgun instructor" has the meaning stated in §5-101 of this title.
"Secretary" means the Secretary of State Police or the Secretary's designee.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §§36E(l), 36F(a), (b); 2003, ch. 5, §2. 2013, ch. 427. Amended 2018 ch. 253

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(i)(1); 2003, ch. 5, §2. Repealed 2018 c. 253 effective Oct. 1, 2018

A person shall have a permit issued under this subtitle before the person carries, wears, or transports a handgun.

HISTORY: 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Oath. -- An application for a permit shall be made under oath.
Fees -- In general. --
1. Subject to subsections (c) and (d) of this section, the Secretary may charge a nonrefundable fee payable when an application is filed for a permit.
2. The fee may not exceed:
  1. $ 75 for an initial application;
  2. $ 50 for a renewal or subsequent application; and
  3. $ 10 for a duplicate or modified permit.
3. The fees under this subsection are in addition to the fees authorized under §5-305 of this subtitle.
Fees -- Reduction. -- The Secretary may reduce the fee under subsection (b) of this section accordingly for a permit that is granted for one day only and at one place only.
Fees -- Exceptions. -- The Secretary may not charge a fee under subsection (b) of this section to:
1. a State, county, or municipal public safety employee who is required to carry, wear, or transport a handgun as a condition of governmental employment; or
2. a retired law enforcement officer of the State or a county or municipal corporation of the State.
the applicant shall pay a fee under this section by an electronic check, a credit card, or a method of online payment approved by the secretary.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(a), (b), (e); 2003, ch. 5, §2 Amended 2019 ch. 43.

"Central Repository" defined. -- In this section, "Central Repository" means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
Application required. -- Except as provided in subsection (g) of this section, the Secretary shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check for each applicant for a permit.
Contents of application. -- As part of the application for a criminal history records check, the Secretary shall submit to the Central Repository:
1. two complete sets of the applicant's legible fingerprints taken on forms approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
2. the fee authorized under §10-221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records; and
3. the mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check.
Information forwarded to applicant and State Police. -- In accordance with §§10-201 through 10-234 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the applicant and the Secretary a printed statement of the applicant's criminal history record information.
Restrictions on information. -- Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:
1. is confidential and may not be disseminated; and
2. shall be used only for the licensing purpose authorized by this section.
Subject may contest contents. -- The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the printed statement issued by the Central Repository as provided in §10-223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.
for an employee of an armored car company who is an applicant for a permit, the secretary may accept a criminal background investigation performed on behalf of the armored car company in place of the criminal history records check required by this section if:
1. the criminal background investigation meets the minimum requirements established by the department of state police; and
2. the secretary performs a cursory check to verify the facts listed in the criminal background investigation.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(c); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2105, ch. 404, §1, eff. Oct. 1, 2015.

In general. -- Subject to subsection (c) of this section, the Secretary shall issue a permit within a reasonable time to a person who the Secretary finds:
1. is an adult;
2. 1. has not been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor for which a sentence of imprisonment for more than 1 year has been imposed; or
  2. if convicted of a crime described in item (i) of this item, has been pardoned or has been granted relief under 18 U.S.C. §925(c);
3. has not been convicted of a crime involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance;
4. is not presently an alcoholic, addict, or habitual user of a controlled dangerous substance unless the habitual use of the controlled dangerous substance is under legitimate medical direction;
5. except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, has successfully completed prior to application and each renewal, a firearms training course approved by the secretary that includes:
  1. 1. for an initial application, a minimum of 16 hours of instruction by a qualified handgun instructor; or
    2. for a renewal application, 8 hours of instruction by a qualified handgun instructor;
  2. classroom instruction on:
    1. state firearm law;
    2. home firearm safety; and
    3. handgun mechanisms and operation; and
  3. a firearms qualification component that demonstrates the applicant's proficiency and use of the firearm; and
6. based on an investigation:
  1. has not exhibited a propensity for violence or instability that may reasonably render the person's possession of a handgun a danger to the person or to another; and
  2. has good and substantial reason to wear, carry, or transport a handgun, such as a finding that the permit is necessary as a reasonable precaution against apprehended danger.
An applicant for a permit is not required to complete a certified firearms training course under subsection (a) of this section if the applicant:
1. is a law enforcement officer or a person who is retired in good standing from service with a law enforcement agency of the united states, the state, or any local law enforcement agency in the state;
2. is a member, retired member, or honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the united states or the national guard;
3. is a qualified handgun instructor; or
4. has completed a fire arms training course approved by the secretary.
Applicant under age of 30 years. -- An applicant under the age of 30 years is qualified only if the Secretary finds that the applicant has not been:
1. committed to a detention, training, or correctional institution for juveniles for longer than 1 year after an adjudication of delinquency by a juvenile court; or
2. adjudicated delinquent by a juvenile court for:
  1. an act that would be a crime of violence if committed by an adult;
  2. an act that would be a felony in this State if committed by an adult; or
  3. an act that would be a misdemeanor in this State that carries a statutory penalty of more than 2 years if committed by an adult.
The secretary may issue a handgun qualification license, without an additional application or fee, to a person who:
1. meets the requirements for issuance of a permit under this section; and
2. does not have a handgun qualification license issued under §5-117.1 of this title.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(a); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2013, ch. 427.

In general. -- A permit is valid for each handgun legally in the possession of the person to whom the permit is issued.
Limitations. -- The Secretary may limit the geographic area, circumstances, or times of the day, week, month, or year in which a permit is effective.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(e), (f); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

A person to whom a permit is issued or renewed shall carry the permit in the person's possession whenever the person carries, wears, or transports a handgun.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(f); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Term of permit. -- Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a permit expires on the last day of the holder's birth month following 2 years after the date the permit is issued.
Renewal of permit. -- Subject to subsection (c) of this section, a permit may be renewed for successive periods of 3 years each if, at the time of an application for renewal, the applicant possesses the qualifications for the issuance of a permit and pays the renewal fee stated in this subtitle.
Fingerprinting. -- A person who applies for a renewal of a permit is not required to be fingerprinted unless the Secretary requires a set of the person's fingerprints to resolve a question of the person's identity.
Alternative expiration date. -- The Secretary may establish an alternative expiration date for a permit to coincide with the expiration of a license, certification, or commission for:
1. a private detective under Title 13 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article;
2. a security guard under Title 19 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article; or
3. a special police officer under Section 3-306 of this article.

An. Code 1957, art. 27, Section 36E(d); 2003, ch. 5, Section 2; 2016, ch. 618 ; 2017, chs. 190 , 191 .

In general. -- The Secretary may revoke a permit on a finding that the holder:
1. does not meet the qualifications described in §5-306 of this subtitle; or
2. violated §5-308 of this subtitle.
Return of permit. -- A holder of a permit that is revoked by the Secretary shall return the permit to the Secretary within 10 days after receipt of written notice of the revocation.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(g); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Request for informal review. -- A person who is denied a permit or renewal of a permit or whose permit is revoked or limited may request the Secretary to conduct an informal review by filing a written request within 10 days after receipt of written notice of the Secretary's initial action.
Personal interview. -- An informal review:
1. may include a personal interview of the person who requested the informal review; and
2. is not subject to Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
Action by Secretary. -- In an informal review, the Secretary shall sustain, reverse, or modify the initial action taken and notify the person who requested the informal review of the decision in writing within 30 days after receipt of the request for informal review.
Request for review by Board. -- A person need not file a request for an informal review under this section before requesting review under §5-312 of this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(h); 2003, ch. 5, §2. Amended 2018 ch. 253

Request for review authorized. --
1. A person who is denied a permit or renewal of a permit or whose permit is revoked or limited may request the Board to review the decision of the Secretary by filing a written request with the Board within 10 days after receipt of written notice of the Secretary's final action.
2. A person whose application for a permit or renewal of a permit is not acted on by the Secretary within 90 days after submitting the application to the Secretary may request a hearing before the Board by filing a written request with the Board.
Form of review. -- Within 90 days after receiving a request to review a decision of the Secretary, the Board shall:
1. review the record developed by the Secretary; and
2. conduct a hearing.
Evidence. -- The Board may receive and consider additional evidence submitted by a party in conducting a review of the decision of the Secretary.
Decision by Board. --
1. Based on the Board's consideration of the record and any additional evidence, the Board shall sustain, reverse, or modify the decision of the Secretary.
2. Within 60 days after the last hearing in the matter conducted by the Board, the Board shall submit in writing to the applicant, the holder of the permit, and the Secretary the reasons for the decision of the Board.
Appeal to Office of Administrative Hearings. --
1. The applicant, the holder of the permit, or the Secretary may appeal the decision of the Board to the Office of Administrative Hearings within 30 days after the issuance of the Board's reasons under subsection (d)(2) of this section.
2. Within 60 days after the receipt of a request from the applicant, the holder of the permit, or the Secretary, the Office of Administrative Hearings shall schedule and conduct a de novo hearing on the appeal, at which witness testimony and other evidence may be provided.
3. Within 90 days after the conclusion of the last hearing on the matter, the Office of Administrative Hearings shall issue a finding of facts and a decision.
4. A party that is aggrieved by the decision of the Office of Administrative Hearings may appeal the decision to the circuit court.
5. Administrative procedures. --
  1. Subject to subsections (d) and (e) of this section, any hearing and any subsequent proceedings of judicial review shall be conducted in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
  2. Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, a court may not order the issuance or renewal of a permit or alter a limitation on a permit pending a final determination of the proceeding.
Report. -- On or before December 1 each year, the Board shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with Section 2-1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly:
1. the number of appeals of decisions by the Secretary that have been filed with the Board within the previous year;
2. the number of decisions by the Secretary that have been sustained, modified, or reversed by the Board within the previous year;
3. the number of appeals that are pending; and
4. the number of appeals that have been withdrawn within the previous year.
Applicability of Open Meetings Act. -- The Board is subject to Title 3 (Open Meetings Act) of the General Provisions Article.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, Section 36E(i)(2)-(4); 2003, ch. 5, Section 2; 2018, ch. 253 ; 2019, ch. 510, Section 4; ch. 511, Section 4.

Prohibited. -- A person may not fail to return a revoked permit.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine of not less than $ 100 or exceeding $ 1,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36E(g); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Prohibited. -- A person who holds a permit may not wear, carry, or transport a handgun while the person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Penalty. -- A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 or both.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, CR §4-207; 2003, ch. 5, §2.

In general. -- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
Board. -- "Board" means the Handgun Roster Board.
1. Handgun. -- "Handgun" means a pistol, a revolver, or any other firearm capable of being concealed on the person.
2. "handgun" does not include a shotgun, a rifle, a shortâ€"barreled rifle, a shortâ€"barreled shotgun, or an antique firearm.
Handgun roster. -- "Handgun roster" means the roster of authorized handguns compiled by the Board under §5-405 of this subtitle.
Secretary. -- "Secretary" means the Secretary of State Police or the Secretary's designee.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36F(a), (b), (h), (j), (l); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2015, ch. 441, §1, eff.Oct. 1, 2015.

Manufacture and sale of weapons. -- This subtitle does not affect a person's right to:
1. manufacture, sell, or offer to sell a rifle or other weapon that is not defined as a handgun in §4-201 of the Criminal Law Article;
2. manufacture a prototype handgun model required for design, development, testing, and approval by the Board; and
3. manufacture in this State a handgun that is not on the handgun roster by a federally licensed gun manufacturer who is also licensed as a regulated firearms dealer in this State for direct sale to a unit of:
  1. the federal government;
  2. a state other than this State;
  3. a local government in a state other than this State; or
  4. a law enforcement agency in a state other than this State.
Strict liability. --
1. A person is not strictly liable for damages for injuries to another that result from the criminal use of a firearm by a third person.
2. Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply if the person conspired with the third person to commit the criminal act in which the firearm was used or willfully aided, abetted, or caused the commission of the criminal act in which the firearm was used.
3. This subtitle does not otherwise negate, limit, or modify the doctrine of negligence or strict liability that relates to abnormally dangerous products or activities and defective products.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36-I(f), (h); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

The Secretary shall adopt regulations necessary to carry out this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36-I(e); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Established. -- There is a Handgun Roster Board in the Department of State Police.
Membership; appointment. --
1. The Board consists of 11 members.
2. Of the 11 members of the Board:
  1. one shall be the Secretary as an ex officio member;
  2. ten shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate; and
  3. all shall be Maryland residents.
3. Of the ten appointed members of the Board:
  1. one shall be a representative of the Association of Chiefs of Police;
  2. one shall be a representative of the Maryland State's Attorneys' Association;
  3. one shall be a handgun dealer, gunsmith, or representative of a handgun manufacturer;
  4. one shall be a resident of the State who is a representative of the National Rifle Association or its affiliated State association;
  5. one shall be a representative of an organization that advocates against handgun violence; and
  6. five shall be public members, two of whom shall be mechanical or electrical engineers.
Tenure. -- The term of an appointed member is 4 years.
Chairman. -- The Secretary shall serve as chairman.
Meetings. -- The Board shall meet at the request of the chairman or of a majority of the members.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36J(a); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2008, ch. 469.

Establishment and publication of roster. -- The Board shall:
1. compile and maintain a handgun roster of authorized handguns that are useful for legitimate sporting, self-protection, or law enforcement purposes;
2. annually publish the handgun roster in the Maryland Register; and
3. semiannually send a copy of the handgun roster to all persons who hold a State regulated firearm dealer's license under Subtitle 1 of this title.
Criteria for placement on roster. -- The Board shall consider carefully each of the following characteristics of a handgun without placing undue weight on any one characteristic in determining whether any handgun should be placed on the handgun roster:
1. concealability;
2. ballistic accuracy;
3. weight;
4. quality of materials;
5. quality of manufacture;
6. reliability as to safety;
7. caliber;
8. detectability by the standard security equipment that is commonly used at an airport or courthouse and that is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for use at airports in the United States; and
9. utility for legitimate sporting activities, self-protection, or law enforcement.
Placement process. --
1. The Board may place a handgun on the handgun roster on its own initiative.
2. The Board shall place a handgun on the handgun roster on the successful petition of any person subject to subsections (d) and (e) of this section, unless a court, after all appeals are exhausted, has made a finding that the decision of the Board shall be affirmed.
3. A petition to place a handgun on the handgun roster shall be submitted to the Board in writing in the form and manner that the Board requires.
4. A person who petitions for placement of a handgun on the handgun roster has the burden of proving to the Board that the handgun should be placed on the handgun roster.
Action of Board on petition. --
1. Within 45 days after receipt of a petition to place a handgun on the handgun roster, the Board shall:
  1. deny the petition in writing, stating the reasons for denial; or
  2. approve the petition and publish a description of the handgun in the Maryland Register, including notice that any objection to the handgun's inclusion on the handgun roster shall be filed with the Board within 30 days.
2. If the Board fails to deny or approve a petition within the time required under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the petition shall be considered denied.
Notice of denial; hearing; appeal. --
1. If the Board denies a petition to place a handgun on the handgun roster, the Board shall notify the petitioner by certified mail, return receipt requested.
2. The petitioner may request a hearing within 15 days after the date that the Board's denial letter is received.
3. 1. If the petitioner requests a hearing under paragraph (2) of this subsection, within a reasonable time not to exceed 90 days after receiving the request, the Board shall:
    1. hold a hearing on the petition; and
    2. issue a written final decision on the petition.
  2. The Board shall provide notice of the hearing in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
  3. At a hearing held under this paragraph, the petitioner has the burden of proving to the Board that the handgun should be placed on the handgun roster because the handgun is useful for legitimate sporting activities, self-protection, or law enforcement purposes.
4. Any party of record who is aggrieved may appeal within 30 days after a final decision of the Board in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
Effect of section. -- This section does not require the Board to test any handgun or have any handgun tested at the expense of the Board.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36J(b)-(f); 2003, ch. 5, §2; 2006, ch. 92.

Prohibitions. --
1. Except as provided in §5-402 of this subtitle, a person may not manufacture for distribution or sale a handgun that is not included on the handgun roster in the State.
2. A person may not sell or offer for sale in the State a handgun manufactured after January 1, 1985, that is not included on the handgun roster.
3. A person may not manufacture, sell, or offer for sale a handgun on which the manufacturer's identification mark or number is obliterated, removed, changed, or otherwise altered.
Injunction authorized. -- The Secretary may seek an order from a circuit court to permanently or temporarily enjoin the willful and continuous manufacture, sale, or offer for sale, in violation of this section, of a handgun that is not included on the handgun roster.
Penalties. --
1. A person who manufactures a handgun for distribution or sale in violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 10,000 for each violation.
2. A person who sells or offers to sell a handgun in violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 2,500 for each violation.
3. For purposes of this subsection, each handgun manufactured, sold, or offered for sale in violation of this subsection is a separate violation.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, §36-I(a)-(d), (g); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

In this subtitle, "Council" means the Cease Fire Council.

HISTORY: 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Established. -- There is a Cease Fire Council in the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention.
Membership; appointment. --
1. The Council consists of 11 members.
2. Of the 11 members of the Council:
  1. one shall be the Secretary of Juvenile Services or a designee;
  2. one shall be the Secretary of State Police or a designee;
  3. one shall be the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services or a designee;
  4. one shall be the Executive Director of the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention or a designee;
  5. two shall be State's Attorneys who are recommended by the President of the Maryland State's Attorneys' Association, appointed by the Governor;
  6. one shall be a sheriff, appointed by the Governor;
  7. one shall represent the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association, appointed by the Governor;
  8. one shall represent the Maryland Municipal Police Executives Association, appointed by the Governor; and
  9. two shall represent the public, appointed by the Governor.
Tenure; vacancies. --
1. The appointed members serve at the pleasure of the Governor.
2. The term of an appointed member is 3 years.
3. The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for appointed members of the Council on October 1, 2003.
4. At the end of a term, an appointed member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
Chairman. -- The Secretary of State Police or the Secretary's designee is the Chairman of the Council.
Compensation and reimbursement for expenses. -- A member of the Council:
1. may not receive compensation as a member of the Council; but
2. is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
Staff; legal advisor. --
1. The Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention shall provide staff support for the Council.
2. The Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention is the legal advisor to the Council.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 88B, §81(a)(1), (2), (5); 2003, ch. 5, §2; ch. 53, §10; 2005, ch. 217.

Purpose. -- The purpose of the Council is to administer the Cease Fire Council Grant Program to support innovative and collaborative firearms violence reduction initiatives.
Duties. -- The Council shall:
1. make grants in accordance with §5-504 of this subtitle;
2. establish or assist in the establishment of programs designed to reduce the incidence of firearms violence related crime and encourage participation in existing programs with these objectives;
3. identify specific goals, objectives, and methodologies to be used in support of programs eligible for funding under this subtitle;
4. identify priorities for firearms violence related crime prevention strategies in the State; and
5. develop criteria to evaluate the outcomes of programs that receive money under this subtitle.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 88B, §81(a)(3), (4); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Established. -- There is a Cease Fire Council Grant Program.
Funding. -- The Cease Fire Council Grant Program shall be funded as provided in the State budget.
Grants. -- Grants made by the Council shall be used to carry out the purposes of this subtitle.
Considerations in making grants. -- When making grants, the Council shall consider and give priority to:
1. comprehensive and coordinated law enforcement and prosecution programs that target criminals and juveniles who use or illegally possess firearms;
2. law enforcement and prosecution salaries and overtime in support of firearm violence reduction programs;
3. covert firearms-related investigations and debriefing of criminal and juvenile arrestees and offenders for information related to illegal firearms trafficking;
4. initiatives that support the tracing of firearms used to commit crimes or delinquent acts and the identification of illegal firearms traffickers;
5. purchases of technology and information systems to support firearm violence reduction initiatives; and
6. other efforts that aid in apprehending and prosecuting criminals or apprehending and filing a complaint against juveniles who use or illegally possess firearms.
Expenditures from Program. -- Expenditures from the Cease Fire Council Grant Program may be made only in accordance with the State budget or by budget amendment.
Regulations. -- The Council shall adopt regulations for the grant process and the oversight of grants made by the Council.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 88B, §81(b); 2003, ch. 5, §2.

Maryland Firearm Laws

Chapter 427 - Firearm Safety Act of 2013

CRIMINAL LAW

TITLE 4 - WEAPON CRIMES

SUBTITLE 1 - General Provisions

§4-101 - (2012) Dangerous weapons

§4-102 - (2015) Deadly weapons on school property

§4-103 - (2012) Disarming a law enforcement officer

§4-104 - (2012) Child's access to firearms

§4-105 - (2012) Transfer of switchblade or shooting knife

§4-106 - (2012) Bulletproof body armor -- Wearing prohibited

§4-107 - (2012) Bulletproof body armor-- Permit to use, possess, or purchase

§4-108 - (2012) Target practice or discharging gun or weapon

§4-109 - (2012) Electronic control device

§4-110 - (2013) Restricted firearm ammunition

SUBTITLE 2 - Handguns

§4-201 - (2012) Definitions

§4-202 - (2012) Legislative findings

§4-203 - (2018) Wearing, carrying, or transporting handgun

§4-204 - (2012) Use of handgun or antique firearm in commission of crime

§4-205 - (2012) Other limitations on sentencing

§4-206 - (2012) Limited search, seizure, and arrest

§4-207 - (2012) Permit holder carrying, wearing, or transporting handgun under the influence

§4-208 - (2012) Possession of firearm at public demonstration

§4-209 - (2012) Regulation of weapons and ammunition

SUBTITLE 3 - Assault Weapons And Detachable Magazines

§4-301 - (2018) "Assault pistol" defined

§4-302 - (2013) Scope of subtitle

§4-303 - (2018) Assault pistols -- Prohibited

§4-304 - (2013) Assault pistols -- Seizure and disposition

§4-305 - (2013) Detachable magazines -- Prohibited

§4-305.1 - (2018) Rapid fire trigger activator

§4-306 - (2018) Penalties

SUBTITLE 4 - Uniform Machine Gun Act

§4-401 - (2012) Definitions

§4-402 - (2012) Possession of machine gun

§4-403 - (2012) Registration of machine gun

§4-404 - (2012) Use of machine gun in crime of violence

§4-405 - (2012) Use of machine gun for aggressive purpose

§4-406 - (2012) Uniformity

§4-407 - (2012) Short title

SUBTITLE 5 - Destructive Devices

§4-501 - (2012) Definitions

§4-502 - (2012) Scope of subtitle

§4-503 - (2012) Manufacture or possession of destructive device

GENERAL PROVISIONS

TITLE 4 - PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT

SUBTITLE 3 - Denials Of Inspection

Part II - Required Denials For Specific Records

§4-325 - (2014) Firearm And Handgun Records

PUBLIC SAFETY

TITLE 5 - FIREARMS

SUBTITLE 1 - Regulated Firearms

§5-101 - (2017) Definitions

§5-102 - (2012) Scope of subtitle

§5-103 - (2012) Effect of subtitle

§5-104 - (2012) Preemption by State

§5-105 - (2012) Regulations

§5-106 - (2012) Dealer's license

§5-107 - (2012) Application for dealer's license

§5-108 - (2012) Criminal history records check

§5-109 - (2012) Investigation of applicant for dealer's license

§5-110 - (2013) Disapproval of dealer's license application

§5-111 - (2012) Term of dealer's license

§5-112 - (2012) Nontransferability of dealer's license; new place of business

§5-113 - (2012) Display of dealer's license

§5-114 - (2013) Suspensions and revocations -- Grounds; notice; effect

§5-115 - (2013) Suspensions and revocations -- Hearings

§5-116 - (2012) Judicial review

§5-117 - (2012) Application for regulated firearm required

§5-117.1 - (2013) Handgun qualification license required for purchase of handguns

§5-118 - (2017) Firearm application

§5-119 - (2013) Exemption from certified firearms training course requirement [repealed]

§5-120 - (2013) Copies of firearm application; fees

§5-121 - (2012) Investigation of firearm applicant

§5-122 - (2012) Disapproval of firearm application

§5-123 - (2012) Time for licensee to complete transactions

§5-124 - (2012) Secondary transactions

§5-125 - (2012) Approved, on hold, and disapproved applications

§5-126 - (2012) Hearings