ASSEMBLY JUDICIARY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 1389

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 20, 2025

      The Assembly Judiciary Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Assembly Bill No. 1389.

      This bill requires domestic violence offenders to surrender ammunition and certain firearm components while a domestic violence restraining order is in effect or following a conviction for a domestic violence crime or offense.

      Under current law, a law enforcement officer is required to seize firearms and weapons observed at the scene of a domestic violence incident.  In addition, persons convicted of domestic violence are prohibited from possessing or owning a firearm.  This bill includes ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components among the items that may be seized or surrendered pursuant to a domestic violence restraining order or following a conviction for domestic violence.

      The bill defines “firearm accessory” as any device that attaches to a firearm, or that is used in or facilitates the operation of a firearm, including but not limited to stocks, grips, and detachable magazines.  “Firearm component” is defined as any part of a firearm that is material to the function of the firearm, including but not limited to the slide or cylinder or the frame or receiver of a firearm and, in the case of a rifle or shotgun, the barrel.

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2024-2025 session pending technical review.  As amended and reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS:

      The committee amended the bill to:

      - clarify that information concerning ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components may be sought using the Judiciary’s standardized form; and

      -  make minor technical changes.