NCJ Number
81353
Date Published
1978
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This brochure explains to those who deal in firearms and ammunition recent changes in Canada's gun control law.
Abstract
The changes discussed are in the Criminal Law Amendment Act (1977). The new laws encourage the safer storage and handling of guns, so as to control access to weapons by those who would use them in a criminal or otherwise irresponsible manner. New regulations specify standards and requirements for the sale, advertising, importation, storage, handling, and transportation of firearms and ammunition. The majority of changes which came into effect January 1, 1978, relate primarily to increased penalties for the criminal use of firearms and provide an extensive revision to the lists of weapons classed as prohibited and restricted. Effective January 1, 1979, all dealers in firearms and ammunition will be required to obtain a permit for each location or outlet. Dealers will be required to maintain records of transactions involving all firearms. Until that date, however, dealers in restricted weapons must continue to maintain records consistent with established procedures. The use of firearms acquisition certificates will also come into effect on January 1, 1979, prohibiting the sale, transfer, gift, delivery, or exchange of weapons to any person not having a valid certificate. The brochure not only explains what the new law requires of the dealer, but also provides details on the administration of the system and descriptions of weapons, permits, certificates, and the rights of appeal. (Author summary modified)