New Zealand PM proposes stricter gun control laws News
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New Zealand PM proposes stricter gun control laws

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern introduced legislation Friday to further strengthen the nation’s gun laws six months after terror attacks on two Christchurch mosques left 51 people dead. The proposed legislation is being called the Arms Legislation Bill.

The proposed legislation seeks to ensure gun ownership is restricted to responsible users while simultaneously seeking to reduce the amount of firearms on the black market.

“The Government is taking steps to ensure gun ownership is restricted to responsible users, and to stop the flow of guns into the black market,” a press statement said Friday

The legislation calls for the tracking of every firearm, and would shorten the duration of a gun license from 10 to five years. It also includes updated and new penalties for offenses. Finally, the bill contains provisions that enable health practitioners to contact the Police if they have concerns about a licensed firearm owner’s well being.

The bill will also call for the creation of the Commissioner’s Firearms Advisory group for assistance in the implementation of its firearm restrictions. The Arms Legislation Bill will have its first reading on September 24th.

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