S. 803: Keep Americans Safe Act

This bill, titled the Keep Americans Safe Act, aims to regulate large capacity ammunition feeding devices, which are defined as devices capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition. The bill proposes several key changes and restrictions regarding these devices:

Definitions

The bill provides a clear definition of a "large capacity ammunition feeding device," which includes magazines, belts, drums, and other similar devices, provided they hold more than 10 rounds. However, it excludes devices designed for .22 caliber rimfire ammunition.

Restrictions

The bill establishes prohibitions concerning the importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of large capacity ammunition feeding devices. This includes:

• It will be illegal to engage in any of the above activities involving these devices.
• Possession of devices lawfully owned before the enactment of the bill is exempt from this prohibition.
• Certain exceptions allow for possession by:
  • Qualified law enforcement officers.
  • Federal or state agencies for law enforcement purposes.
  • Individuals retired from law enforcement under specified conditions.
  • Licensed manufacturers or importers for testing or experimentation as authorized by the Attorney General.

Identification Requirements

The bill also mandates that any large capacity ammunition feeding device manufactured after its enactment must have a serial number and the date of manufacture engraved on it, along with any additional identification as prescribed by the Attorney General.

Seizure and Forfeiture

It expands existing laws regarding the seizure of firearms and ammunition to include large capacity ammunition feeding devices. Violations resulting in legal actions can lead to the seizure of such devices, similar to firearms and ammunition.

Penalties

The bill proposes updating penalties for violations related to large capacity ammunition feeding devices, aligning them with existing penalties for firearms and ammunition infringements.

Buy-Back Programs

It establishes provisions for the use of Byrne grants (federal funds meant for local law enforcement) to fund buy-back programs specifically targeting large capacity ammunition feeding devices. This enables local governments to compensate individuals who surrender these devices.

Severability Clause

The bill contains a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the legislation is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions would continue to be effective.

Relevant Companies

None found.