Source: https://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/18/00.061..HTM
Timestamp: 2019-04-21 13:14:01+00:00

Document:
Special Provisions in Appendix. See section 4 of Act 334 of 1972 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to the applicability of the Statutory Construction Act to this article.
Enactment. Chapter 61 was added December 6, 1972, P.L.1482, No.334, effective in six months.
Special Provisions in Appendix. See the preamble to Act 66 of 2005 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings and declarations.
Cross References. Chapter 61 is referred to in sections 9122.1, 9122.3 of this title; sections 6108, 6108.2, 6108.3 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); sections 6307, 6308 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure); sections 4503, 4601 of Title 61 (Prisons and Parole).
6101. Short title of subchapter.
6103. Crimes committed with firearms.
6105. Persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms.
6105.1. Restoration of firearm rights for offenses under prior laws of this Commonwealth.
6105.2. Relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons.
6106. Firearms not to be carried without a license.
6106.1. Carrying loaded weapons other than firearms.
6108. Carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia.
6110. Persons to whom delivery shall not be made (Repealed).
6110.1. Possession of firearm by minor.
6110.2. Possession of firearm with altered manufacturer's number.
6111. Sale or transfer of firearms.
6111.3. Firearm Records Check Fund.
6112. Retail dealer required to be licensed.
6115. Loans on, or lending or giving firearms prohibited.
6116. False evidence of identity.
6117. Altering or obliterating marks of identification.
6120. Limitation on the regulation of firearms and ammunition.
6122. Proof of license and exception.
6123. Waiver of disability or pardons.
6125. Distribution of uniform firearm laws and firearm safety brochures.
6126. Firearms Background Check Advisory Committee (Expired).
6128. Abandonment of firearms, weapons or ammunition.
Special Provisions in Appendix. See the preamble to Act 17 of the First Special Session of 1995 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative purpose.
Cross References. Subchapter A is referred to in sections 6105, 6108.6 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); section 2503 of Title 34 (Game).
§ 6101. Short title of subchapter.
This subchapter shall be known and may be cited as the Pennsylvania Uniform Firearms Act of 1995.
"Commissioner." The Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police.
"Commonwealth Photo Imaging Network." The computer network administered by the Commonwealth and used to record and store digital photographs of an individual's face and any scars, marks, tattoos or other unique features of the individual.
"Conviction." A conviction, a finding of guilty or the entering of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, whether or not judgment of sentence has been imposed, as determined by the law of the jurisdiction in which the prosecution was held. The term does not include a conviction which has been expunged or overturned or for which an individual has been pardoned unless the pardon expressly provides that the individual may not possess or transport firearms.
"County treasurer." The county treasurer or, in home rule or optional plan counties, the person whose duties encompass those of a county treasurer.
(1) Federal or State offenses pertaining to antitrust, unfair trade practices, restraints on trade or regulation of business.
(2) State offenses classified as misdemeanors and punishable by a term of imprisonment not to exceed two years.
"Firearm." Any pistol or revolver with a barrel length less than 15 inches, any shotgun with a barrel length less than 18 inches or any rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches, or any pistol, revolver, rifle or shotgun with an overall length of less than 26 inches. The barrel length of a firearm shall be determined by measuring from the muzzle of the barrel to the face of the closed action, bolt or cylinder, whichever is applicable.
"Fund." The Firearm Ownership Fund established in section 6111.3 (relating to Firearm Ownership Fund).
"Law enforcement officer." Any person employed by any police department or organization of the Commonwealth or political subdivision thereof who is empowered to effect an arrest with or without warrant and who is authorized to carry a firearm in the performance of that person's duties.
"Pennsylvania Sheriffs' Association." The State association of sheriffs authorized by the act of June 14, 1923 (P.L.774, No.305), entitled "An act authorizing the sheriffs of the several counties of this Commonwealth to organize themselves into a State Association, for the purpose of holding annual meetings, to secure more uniformity and cooperation in the conduct of their offices, and providing for the payment of certain expenses in connection with such meetings by the various counties."
"Safekeeping permit." As defined in 23 Pa.C.S. § 6102 (relating to definitions).
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the sheriff of the county.
(2) In a city of the first class, the chief or head of the police department.
"State." When used in reference to different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and territories and possessions of the United States.
2011 Amendment. Act 10 amended the def. of "loaded." See the preamble to Act 10 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings.
2005 Amendment. Act 66 added the defs. of "Commonwealth Photo Imaging Network," "Pennsylvania Sheriffs' Association," "safekeeping permit" and "state."
1995 Amendment. Act 66 added the defs. of "law enforcement officer" and "loaded."
Cross References. Section 6102 is referred to in sections 6105.1, 6106.1, 6111, 6111.1, 6113, 6121, 6141.1, 6142 of this title; section 5902 of Title 61 (Prisons and Parole).
§ 6103. Crimes committed with firearms.
If any person commits or attempts to commit a crime enumerated in section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms) when armed with a firearm contrary to the provisions of this subchapter, that person may, in addition to the punishment provided for the crime, also be punished as provided by this subchapter.
§ 6104. Evidence of intent.
In the trial of a person for committing or attempting to commit a crime enumerated in section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms), the fact that that person was armed with a firearm, used or attempted to be used, and had no license to carry the same, shall be evidence of that person's intention to commit the offense.
§ 6105. Persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms.
(1) A person who has been convicted of an offense enumerated in subsection (b), within or without this Commonwealth, regardless of the length of sentence or whose conduct meets the criteria in subsection (c) shall not possess, use, control, sell, transfer or manufacture or obtain a license to possess, use, control, sell, transfer or manufacture a firearm in this Commonwealth.
(2) (i) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, a person who is prohibited from possessing, using, controlling, selling, transferring or manufacturing a firearm under paragraph (1) or subsection (b) or (c) shall have a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 60 days from the date of the imposition of the disability under this subsection, in which to sell or transfer that person's firearms to another eligible person who is not a member of the prohibited person's household.
(ii) This paragraph shall not apply to any person whose disability is imposed pursuant to subsection (c)(6).
(iii) A person whose disability is imposed pursuant to subsection (c)(9) shall relinquish any firearms and firearm licenses under that person's possession or control, as described in section 6105.2 (relating to relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons).
(iv) A person whose disability is imposed pursuant to a protection from abuse order shall relinquish any firearms, other weapons, ammunition and firearm licenses under that person's possession or control, as described in 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108(a)(7) (relating to relief).
(1) Except as provided under paragraph (1.1), a person convicted of a felony enumerated under subsection (b) or a felony under the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, or any equivalent Federal statute or equivalent statute of any other state, who violates subsection (a) commits a felony of the second degree.
(B) at the time of the commission of a violation of subsection (a), the person was in physical possession or control of a firearm, whether visible, concealed about the person or within the person's reach.
(ii) The Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing, under 42 Pa.C.S. § 2154 (relating to adoption of guidelines for sentencing), shall provide for a sentencing enhancement for a sentence imposed pursuant to this paragraph.
(2) A person who is the subject of an active final protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108, is the subject of any other active protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6107(b) (relating to hearings), which provided for the relinquishment of firearms or other weapons or ammunition during the period of time the order is in effect, or is otherwise prohibited from possessing or acquiring a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) (relating to unlawful acts), commits a misdemeanor of the second degree if he intentionally or knowingly fails to relinquish a firearm or other weapon or ammunition to the sheriff or appropriate law enforcement agency as defined in 23 Pa.C.S. § 6102 (relating to definitions) as required by the order unless, in lieu of relinquishment, he provides an affidavit which lists the firearms or other weapons or ammunition to the sheriff in accordance with 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108(a)(7)(i)(B), 6108.2 (relating to relinquishment for consignment sale, lawful transfer or safekeeping) or 6108.3 (relating to relinquishment to third party for safekeeping).
(3) (i) A person commits a misdemeanor of the third degree if he intentionally or knowingly accepts possession of a firearm, other weapon or ammunition from another person he knows is the subject of an active final protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 or an active protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6107(b), which order provided for the relinquishment of the firearm, other weapon or ammunition during the period of time the order is in effect.
(B) a dealer licensed pursuant to section 6113 (relating to licensing of dealers) or subsequent purchaser from a dealer licensed pursuant to section 6113, who accepts possession of a firearm, other weapon or ammunition relinquished pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.2.
(ii) relinquished possession of any firearm, other weapon or ammunition possessed in violation of paragraph (3) as directed by the sheriff.
(i) The sheriff accepts return of the safekeeping permit issued to the party pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.3(d)(1)(i).
(ii) The issuance of a court order pursuant to subsection (f)(2) or 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.1(b) (relating to return of relinquished firearms, other weapons and ammunition and additional relief) which modifies a valid protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108, which order provided for the relinquishment of the firearm, other weapon or ammunition by allowing the defendant to take possession of the firearm, other weapon or ammunition that had previously been ordered relinquished.
Section 908 (relating to prohibited offensive weapons).
Section 911 (relating to corrupt organizations).
Section 912 (relating to possession of weapon on school property).
Section 2502 (relating to murder).
Section 2503 (relating to voluntary manslaughter).
Section 2504 (relating to involuntary manslaughter) if the offense is based on the reckless use of a firearm.
Section 2703 (relating to assault by prisoner).
Section 2704 (relating to assault by life prisoner).
Section 2709.1 (relating to stalking).
Section 2716 (relating to weapons of mass destruction).
Section 2901 (relating to kidnapping).
Section 2902 (relating to unlawful restraint).
Section 2910 (relating to luring a child into a motor vehicle or structure).
Section 3301 (relating to arson and related offenses).
Section 3302 (relating to causing or risking catastrophe).
Section 3502 (relating to burglary).
Section 3503 (relating to criminal trespass) if the offense is graded a felony of the second degree or higher.
Section 3701 (relating to robbery).
Section 3702 (relating to robbery of motor vehicle).
Section 3921 (relating to theft by unlawful taking or disposition) upon conviction of the second felony offense.
Section 3923 (relating to theft by extortion) when the offense is accompanied by threats of violence.
Section 3925 (relating to receiving stolen property) upon conviction of the second felony offense.
Section 4906 (relating to false reports to law enforcement authorities) if the fictitious report involved the theft of a firearm as provided in section 4906(c)(2).
Section 4912 (relating to impersonating a public servant) if the person is impersonating a law enforcement officer.
Section 4952 (relating to intimidation of witnesses or victims).
Section 4953 (relating to retaliation against witness, victim or party).
Section 5121 (relating to escape).
Section 5122 (relating to weapons or implements for escape).
Section 5501(3) (relating to riot).
Section 5515 (relating to prohibiting of paramilitary training).
Section 5516 (relating to facsimile weapons of mass destruction).
Section 6110.1 (relating to possession of firearm by minor).
Section 6301 (relating to corruption of minors).
Section 6302 (relating to sale or lease of weapons and explosives).
Any offense equivalent to any of the above-enumerated offenses under the prior laws of this Commonwealth or any offense equivalent to any of the above-enumerated offenses under the statutes of any other state or of the United States.
(1) A person who is a fugitive from justice. This paragraph does not apply to an individual whose fugitive status is based upon a nonmoving or moving summary offense under Title 75 (relating to vehicles).
(2) A person who has been convicted of an offense under the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, or any equivalent Federal statute or equivalent statute of any other state, that may be punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding two years.
(3) A person who has been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance as provided in 75 Pa.C.S. § 3802 (relating to driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance) or the former 75 Pa.C.S. § 3731, on three or more separate occasions within a five-year period. For the purposes of this paragraph only, the prohibition of subsection (a) shall only apply to transfers or purchases of firearms after the third conviction.
(4) A person who has been adjudicated as an incompetent or who has been involuntarily committed to a mental institution for inpatient care and treatment under section 302, 303 or 304 of the provisions of the act of July 9, 1976 (P.L.817, No.143), known as the Mental Health Procedures Act. This paragraph shall not apply to any proceeding under section 302 of the Mental Health Procedures Act unless the examining physician has issued a certification that inpatient care was necessary or that the person was committable.
(5) A person who, being an alien, is illegally or unlawfully in the United States.
(6) A person who is the subject of an active final protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108, is the subject of any other active protection from abuse order issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6107(b), which provided for the relinquishment of firearms during the period of time the order is in effect or is otherwise prohibited from possessing or acquiring a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8). This prohibition shall terminate upon the expiration or vacation of the order or portion thereof relating to the relinquishment of firearms.
(7) A person who was adjudicated delinquent by a court pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 6341 (relating to adjudication) or under any equivalent Federal statute or statute of any other state as a result of conduct which if committed by an adult would constitute an offense under sections 2502, 2503, 2702, 2703 (relating to assault by prisoner), 2704, 2901, 3121, 3123, 3301, 3502, 3701 and 3923.
(8) A person who was adjudicated delinquent by a court pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 6341 or under any equivalent Federal statute or statute of any other state as a result of conduct which if committed by an adult would constitute an offense enumerated in subsection (b) with the exception of those crimes set forth in paragraph (7). This prohibition shall terminate 15 years after the last applicable delinquent adjudication or upon the person reaching the age of 30, whichever is earlier.
then the relationship need not be an element of the offense to meet the requirements of this paragraph.
(10) A person who has been convicted of an offense under subsection (a.1)(2). The prohibition shall terminate five years after the date of conviction, final release from confinement or final release from supervision, whichever is later.
(1) The conviction has been vacated under circumstances where all appeals have been exhausted or where the right to appeal has expired.
(2) The conviction has been the subject of a full pardon by the Governor.
(i) The Secretary of the Treasury of the United States has relieved the applicant of an applicable disability imposed by Federal law upon the possession, ownership or control of a firearm as a result of the applicant's prior conviction, except that the court may waive this condition if the court determines that the Congress of the United States has not appropriated sufficient funds to enable the Secretary of the Treasury to grant relief to applicants eligible for the relief.
(ii) A period of ten years, not including any time spent in incarceration, has elapsed since the most recent conviction of the applicant of a crime enumerated in subsection (b), a felony violation of The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act or the offense which resulted in the prohibition under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9).
(1) If a person convicted of an offense under subsection (a), (b) or (c)(1), (2), (5), (7) or (9) makes application to the court, a hearing shall be held in open court to determine whether the requirements of this section have been met. The commissioner and the district attorney of the county where the application is filed and any victim or survivor of a victim of the offense upon which the disability is based may be parties to the proceeding.
(2) Upon application to the court of common pleas pursuant to paragraph (1) by an applicant who is subject to the prohibition under subsection (c)(3), the court shall grant such relief if a period of ten years, not including any time spent in incarceration, has passed since the applicant's most recent conviction under subsection (c)(3).
(1) Upon application to the court of common pleas under this subsection by an applicant subject to the prohibitions under subsection (c)(4), the court may grant such relief as it deems appropriate if the court determines that the applicant may possess a firearm without risk to the applicant or any other person.
(2) If application is made under this subsection for relief from the disability imposed under subsection (c)(6), notice of such application shall be given to the person who had petitioned for the protection from abuse order, and such person shall be a party to the proceedings. Notice of any court order or amendment to a court order restoring firearms possession or control shall be given to the person who had petitioned for the protection from abuse order, to the sheriff and to the Pennsylvania State Police. The application and any proceedings on the application shall comply with 23 Pa.C.S. Ch. 61 (relating to protection from abuse).
(3) All hearings conducted under this subsection shall be closed unless otherwise requested to be open by the applicant.
(4) (i) The owner of any seized or confiscated firearms or of any firearms ordered relinquished under 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 shall be provided with a signed and dated written receipt by the appropriate law enforcement agency. This receipt shall include, but not limited to, a detailed identifying description indicating the serial number and condition of the firearm. In addition, the appropriate law enforcement agency shall be liable to the lawful owner of said confiscated, seized or relinquished firearm for any loss, damage or substantial decrease in value of said firearm that is a direct result of a lack of reasonable care by the appropriate law enforcement agency.
(ii) Firearms shall not be engraved or permanently marked in any manner, including, but not limited to, engraving of evidence or other identification numbers. Unless reasonable suspicion exists to believe that a particular firearm has been used in the commission of a crime, no firearm shall be test fired. Any reduction in the value of a firearm due to test firing, engraving or permanently marking in violation of this paragraph shall be considered damage, and the law enforcement agency shall be liable to the lawful owner of the firearm for the reduction in value caused by the test firing, engraving or permanently marking.
(iii) For purposes of this paragraph, the term "firearm" shall include any scope, sight, bipod, sling, light, magazine, clip, ammunition or other firearm accessory attached to or seized, confiscated or relinquished with a firearm.
(g) Other restrictions.--Nothing in this section shall exempt a person from a disability in relation to the possession or control of a firearm which is imposed as a condition of probation or parole or which is imposed pursuant to the provision of any law other than this section.
(h) License prohibition.--Any person who is prohibited from possessing, using, controlling, selling, purchasing, transferring or manufacturing any firearm under this section shall not be eligible for or permitted to obtain a license to carry a firearm under section 6109 (relating to licenses).
(i) Firearm.--As used in this section only, the term "firearm" shall include any weapons which are designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
(j) Copy of order to State Police.--If the court grants relief from the disabilities imposed under this section, a copy of the order shall be sent by the prothonotary within ten days of the entry of the order to the Pennsylvania State Police and shall include the name, date of birth and Social Security number of the individual.
2018 Amendment. Act 79 amended subsecs. (a)(2), (a.1)(2) and (3) and (c)(6) and (9) and added subsec. (c)(10). Act 79 shall apply to orders issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 on or after the effective date of section 11 of Act 79.
2016 Amendment. Act 134 amended subsec. (a.1)(1) and added (1.1).
2008 Amendment. Act 131 amended subsec. (b).
2005 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsecs. (a), (a.1), (c)(6), (d), (e)(1) and (f)(2) and (4) and added subsec. (c)(9).
2003 Amendment. Act 24 amended subsec. (c)(3).
1999 Amendment. Act 59 amended subsec. (c)(2) and added subsec. (a.1).
1998 Amendments. Act 70 amended subsec. (c)(4) and added subsec. (j) and Act 121 amended subsec. (c)(1).
1997 Amendment. Act 5 amended subsec. (f).
1995 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsecs. (a), (b), (c), (d) and (f).
Cross References. Section 6105 is referred to in sections 908.1, 6103, 6104, 6105.1, 6105.2, 6109, 6110.2, 6111, 6111.1, 6115, 6117, 6118, 6123, 6301 of this title; sections 6102, 6107, 6108, 6108.3, 6119 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); sections 5802, 6308 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure).
§ 6105.1. Restoration of firearm rights for offenses under prior laws of this Commonwealth.
(3) the applicant's character and reputation is such that the applicant would be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety.
(1) Notice of an application for restoration of firearms rights shall be provided to the Pennsylvania State Police, the district attorney of the county where the disabling offense occurred and the district attorney of the county where the application is filed. The district attorney of the county where the application is filed, the district attorney of the county where the disabling offense occurred and the Pennsylvania State Police may, at their option, be parties to the proceeding.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the standing of the Pennsylvania State Police as a party to a proceeding under this section shall be limited to determinations of whether the offense meets the definition of the phrase "disabling offense" or whether the provisions of subsection (a)(1) and (2) have been satisfied.
(c) Copy of order to Pennsylvania State Police.--If the court grants restoration of firearms rights to an applicant, a copy of the order shall be sent by the prothonotary within ten days of the entry of the order to the district attorneys and the Pennsylvania State Police, Firearms Division, and shall include the name, date of birth and Social Security number of the applicant.
(d) Expungement and pardon.--A restoration of firearms rights under this section shall not result in the expungement of any criminal history record information nor will it constitute a gubernatorial pardon.
(ii) the former act of June 24, 1939 (P.L.872, No.375), known as the Penal Code.
The definition shall not include any offense which, if committed under contemporary standards, would constitute a misdemeanor of the second degree or greater under section 2701 (relating to simple assault) and was committed by a current or former spouse, parent or guardian of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse, parent or guardian or by a person similarly situated to a spouse, parent or guardian of the victim.
"Restoration of firearms rights." Relieving any and all disabilities with respect to a person's right to own, possess, use, control, sell, purchase, transfer, manufacture, receive, ship or transport firearms, including any disabilities imposed pursuant to this subchapter. The phrase shall also mean the restoration of the right to vote, to hold public office and to serve on a jury.
2002 Amendment. Act 172 added section 6105.1.
§ 6105.2. Relinquishment of firearms and firearm licenses by convicted persons.
(1) A person subject to a firearms disability pursuant to section 6105(c)(9) (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms) shall relinquish any firearms under the person's possession or control to the appropriate law enforcement agency of the municipality as described in subsection (b) or to a dealer as described in subsection (c).
(2) The court of conviction shall order the relinquishment, and the order shall be transmitted to the appropriate law enforcement agency of the municipality and to the sheriff of the county of which the person is a resident. The order shall contain a list of any firearm ordered relinquished.
(3) The person shall inform the court in what manner the person will relinquish the firearms.
(4) If the person is present in court at the time of the order, the person shall inform the court whether relinquishment will be made under subsection (b) or (c).
(1) Relinquishment to an appropriate law enforcement agency shall be made within a period not longer than 24 hours following conviction, except for cause shown, in which case the court shall specify the time for relinquishment of any or all of the person's firearms.
(2) In securing custody of the person's relinquished firearms, the law enforcement agency shall provide the person subject to the relinquishment order with a signed and dated written receipt, which shall include a detailed description of each firearm and its condition.
(3) As used in this subsection, the term "cause" shall be limited to facts relating to the inability of the person to retrieve a specific firearm within a period not longer than 24 hours due to the then-current location of the firearm.
(1) In lieu of relinquishment to the local law enforcement agency, the person subject to a court order may, within 24 hours or within the time ordered by the court upon cause being shown as in subsection (b), relinquish firearms to a dealer licensed pursuant to section 6113 (relating to licensing of dealers).
(2) The dealer may charge the person a reasonable fee for accepting relinquishment.
(i) The caption of the case in which the person was convicted.
(ii) The name, address, date of birth and Social Security number of the person.
(iii) A list of the firearms, including the manufacturer, model and serial number.
(iv) The name and license number of the dealer licensed pursuant to section 6113 and the address of the licensed premises.
(v) An acknowledgment that the firearms will not be returned to the person, unless the person is no longer prohibited from possessing a firearm under Federal or State law, or sold or transferred to a person the dealer knows is a member of the defendant's household.
(vi) An acknowledgment that the firearms, if transferred, will be transferred in compliance with this chapter.
(4) Any person relinquishing a firearm pursuant to this subsection shall, within the specified time frame, provide to the appropriate law enforcement agency or the sheriff's office, or both, the affidavit required by this subsection and relinquish to the law enforcement agency any firearm ordered to be relinquished that is not specified in the affidavit.
(1) If the person fails to relinquish any firearm within 24 hours or within the time ordered by the court upon cause being shown, the law enforcement agency shall, at a minimum, provide immediate notice to the court, the victim, the prosecutor and the sheriff.
(2) For purposes of this subsection, "victim" shall have the same meaning as "direct victim" in section 103 of the act of November 24, 1998 (P.L.882, No.111), known as the Crime Victims Act.
(1) If the person relinquishes firearms to the appropriate law enforcement agency pursuant to subsection (b), the person may request that the appropriate law enforcement agency make one transfer of any such firearm to a dealer licensed pursuant to section 6113 within six months of relinquishment.
(2) If requesting a subsequent transfer, the person shall provide the appropriate law enforcement agency with the dealer affidavit described in subsection (c).
(3) The appropriate law enforcement agency shall make the transfer, if the person complies with this subsection, and may charge the person for any costs associated with making the transfer.
(f) Recordkeeping.--Any portion of an order or petition or other paper that includes a list of firearms ordered to be relinquished shall be kept in the files of the court as a permanent record and withheld from public inspection, except upon an order of the court granted upon cause shown, after redaction of information relating to the firearms, or, as necessary, by law enforcement and court personnel.
(1) A person convicted of a crime resulting in a firearm disability pursuant to section 6105(c)(9) shall also relinquish to the sheriff any firearm license issued under section 6106 (relating to firearms not to be carried without a license) or 6109 (relating to licenses) or 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.3 (relating to relinquishment to third party for safekeeping).
(2) The provisions of subsections (a)(2) and (3), (b), (d) and (f) shall also apply to firearm licenses of the person.
(h) Penalty.--A person convicted of a crime resulting in a firearm disability pursuant to section 6105(c)(9) commits a misdemeanor of the second degree if the person intentionally or knowingly fails to relinquish a firearm or other weapon or ammunition to an appropriate law enforcement agency or a dealer in accordance with this section.
(i) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "firearm" means any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
2018 Amendment. Act 79 added section 6105.2. Act 79 shall apply to orders issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 on or after the effective date of section 11 of Act 79.
Cross References. Section 6105.2 is referred to in section 6105 of this title.
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), any person who carries a firearm in any vehicle or any person who carries a firearm concealed on or about his person, except in his place of abode or fixed place of business, without a valid and lawfully issued license under this chapter commits a felony of the third degree.
(2) A person who is otherwise eligible to possess a valid license under this chapter but carries a firearm in any vehicle or any person who carries a firearm concealed on or about his person, except in his place of abode or fixed place of business, without a valid and lawfully issued license and has not committed any other criminal violation commits a misdemeanor of the first degree.
(8) Any person while carrying a firearm which is not loaded and is in a secure wrapper from the place of purchase to his home or place of business, or to a place of repair, sale or appraisal or back to his home or place of business, or in moving from one place of abode or business to another or from his home to a vacation or recreational home or dwelling or back, or to recover stolen property under section 6111.1(b)(4) (relating to Pennsylvania State Police), or to a place of instruction intended to teach the safe handling, use or maintenance of firearms or back or to a location to which the person has been directed to relinquish firearms under 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 (relating to relief) or back upon return of the relinquished firearm or to a licensed dealer's place of business for relinquishment pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.2 (relating to relinquishment for consignment sale, lawful transfer or safekeeping) or back upon return of the relinquished firearm or to a location for safekeeping pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.3 (relating to relinquishment to third party for safekeeping) or back upon return of the relinquished firearm.
(13) Any person who is otherwise eligible to possess a firearm under this chapter and who is operating a motor vehicle which is registered in the person's name or the name of a spouse or parent and which contains a firearm for which a valid license has been issued pursuant to section 6109 to the spouse or parent owning the firearm.
(1) Before any exception shall be granted under paragraph (b)(9) or (10) of this section to any person 18 years of age or older licensed to hunt, trap or fish or who has been issued a permit relating to hunting dogs, such person shall, at the time of securing his hunting, furtaking or fishing license or any time after such license has been issued, secure a sportsman's firearm permit from the county treasurer. The sportsman's firearm permit shall be issued immediately and be valid throughout this Commonwealth for a period of five years from the date of issue for any legal firearm, when carried in conjunction with a valid hunting, furtaking or fishing license or permit relating to hunting dogs. The sportsman's firearm permit shall be in triplicate on a form to be furnished by the Pennsylvania State Police. The original permit shall be delivered to the person, and the first copy thereof, within seven days, shall be forwarded to the Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police by the county treasurer. The second copy shall be retained by the county treasurer for a period of two years from the date of expiration. The county treasurer shall be entitled to collect a fee of not more than $6 for each such permit issued, which shall include the cost of any official form. The Pennsylvania State Police may recover from the county treasurer the cost of any such form, but may not charge more than $1 for each official permit form furnished to the county treasurer.
(2) Any person who sells or attempts to sell a sportsman's firearm permit for a fee in excess of that amount fixed under this subsection commits a summary offense.
(d) Revocation of registration.--Any registration of a firearm under subsection (c) of this section may be revoked by the county treasurer who issued it, upon written notice to the holder thereof.
(1) For purposes of subsection (b)(3), (4), (5), (7) and (8), the term "firearm" shall include any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of the weapon.
(2) As used in this section, the phrase "place of instruction" shall include any hunting club, rifle club, rifle range, pistol range, shooting range, the premises of a licensed firearms dealer or a lawful gun show or meet.
2008 Amendment. Act 131 added subsec. (b)(16).
2005 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsec. (b) and added subsec. (e).
1997 Amendment. Act 5 amended subsecs. (a) and (b).
1988 Amendment. Act 158 amended subsecs. (b)(4) and (c).
Cross References. Section 6106 is referred to in sections 913, 6105.2, 6106.1, 6107, 6108, 6109, 6118, 6122 of this title; section 6108 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).
(a) General rule.--Except as provided in Title 34 (relating to game), no person shall carry a loaded pistol, revolver, shotgun or rifle, other than a firearm as defined in section 6102 (relating to definitions), in any vehicle. The provisions of this section shall not apply to persons excepted from the requirement of a license to carry firearms under section 6106(b)(1), (2), (5) or (6) (relating to firearms not to be carried without a license) nor shall the provisions of this section be construed to permit persons to carry firearms in a vehicle where such conduct is prohibited by section 6106.
(b) Penalty.--A person who violates the provisions of this section commits a summary offense.
§ 6107. Prohibited conduct during emergency.
(b) Seizure, taking and confiscation.--Except as otherwise provided under subsection (a) and notwithstanding the provisions of 35 Pa.C.S. Ch. 73 (relating to Commonwealth services) or any other provision of law to the contrary, no firearm, accessory or ammunition may be seized, taken or confiscated during an emergency unless the seizure, taking or confiscation would be authorized absent the emergency.
"Accessory." Any scope, sight, bipod, sling, light, magazine, clip or other related item that is attached to or necessary for the operation of a firearm.
"Firearm." The term includes any weapon that is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any weapon.
§ 6108. Carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia.
(2) such person is exempt from licensing under section 6106(b) of this title (relating to firearms not to be carried without a license).
Cross References. Section 6108 is referred to in section 6109 of this title.
(ii) An individual who has been convicted of an offense under the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act.
(xii) An individual who is a fugitive from justice. This subparagraph does not apply to an individual whose fugitive status is based upon nonmoving or moving summary offense under Title 75 (relating to vehicles).
(4) Possession of a license, together with a copy of the person's military orders showing the dates of overseas deployment, including the date that the overseas deployment ends, shall constitute, during the extension period specified in paragraph (3), a defense to any charge filed pursuant to section 6106 (relating to firearms not to be carried without a license) or 6108 (relating to carrying firearms on public streets or public property in Philadelphia).
(ii) An administrative fee of $5 under section 14(2) of the act of July 6, 1984 (P.L.614, No.127), known as the Sheriff Fee Act.
(2) Upon adjudication that a person is incompetent or upon the involuntary commitment of a person to a mental institution for inpatient care and treatment under the act of July 9, 1976 (P.L.817, No.143), known as the Mental Health Procedures Act, or upon involuntary treatment of a person as described under section 6105(c)(4), the judge of the court of common pleas, mental health review officer or county mental health and mental retardation administrator shall notify the sheriff of the county in which that person resides, on a form developed by the Pennsylvania State Police, of the identity of the person who has been adjudicated, committed or treated and the nature of the adjudication, commitment or treatment. The notification shall be transmitted by the judge, mental health review officer or county mental health and mental retardation administrator within seven days of the adjudication, commitment or treatment.
(1) The Pennsylvania State Police shall establish a nationwide toll-free telephone number, known as the Firearms License Validation System, which shall be operational seven days a week, 24 hours per day, for the purpose of responding to law enforcement inquiries regarding the validity of any Pennsylvania license to carry a firearm.
(i) Evidence of imminent danger to the person or the person's minor child. For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "minor" shall have the same meaning as provided in 1 Pa.C.S. § 1991 (relating to definitions).
(2) Upon receipt of the items required under paragraph (1), the sheriff immediately shall conduct a criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health record check of the applicant pursuant to section 6105. Immediately upon receipt of the results of the records check, the sheriff shall review the information and shall determine whether the applicant meets the criteria set forth in this subsection. If the sheriff determines that the applicant has met all of the criteria, the sheriff shall immediately issue the applicant a temporary emergency license to carry a concealed firearm.
(4) A temporary emergency license issued under this subsection shall be valid for 45 days and may not be renewed. A person who has been issued a temporary emergency license under this subsection shall not be issued another temporary emergency license unless at least five years have expired since the issuance of the prior temporary emergency license. During the 45 days the temporary emergency license is valid, the sheriff shall conduct an additional investigation of the person for the purposes of determining whether the person may be issued a license pursuant to this section. If, during the course of this investigation, the sheriff discovers any information that would have prohibited the issuance of a license pursuant to this section, the sheriff shall be authorized to revoke the temporary emergency license as provided in subsection (i).
(5) The temporary emergency license issued pursuant to this section shall be consistent with the form prescribed in subsection (e)(3), (4) and (5). In addition to the information provided in those paragraphs, the temporary emergency license shall be clearly marked "Temporary."
(9) Prior to the expiration of a temporary emergency license, if the sheriff has determined pursuant to investigation that the person issued a temporary emergency license is not disqualified and if the temporary emergency license has not been revoked pursuant to subsection (i), the sheriff shall issue a license pursuant to this section that is effective for the balance of the five-year period from the date of the issuance of the temporary emergency license. Records and all other information, duties and obligations regarding such licenses shall be applicable as otherwise provided in this section.
(i) a written document prepared by the Attorney General, a district attorney, a chief law enforcement officer, judicial officer or their designees describing the facts that give a person reasonable cause to fear a criminal attack upon the person or the person's minor child. For the purposes of this subparagraph, the term "chief law enforcement officer" shall have the same meaning as provided in 42 Pa.C.S. § 8951 (relating to definitions) and "judicial officer" shall have the same meaning as provided in 42 Pa.C.S. § 102 (relating to definitions).
(n) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "licensee" means an individual who is licensed to carry a firearm under this section.
2011 Amendment. Act 10 amended subsec. (m.3). See the preamble to Act 10 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings.
2011 Expiration. Subsec. (h)(2) expired May 9, 2011. See Act 66 of 2005.
2008 Amendment. Act 131 amended subsec. (f)(1) and added subsecs. (f)(3) and (4), (m.1), (m.2) and (m.3).
2005 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsecs. (c), (d), (e), (h), (i) and (k) and added subsecs. (i.1), (l), (m) and (n). Section 14 of Act 66 provided that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency shall submit a report to the General Assembly three years after the effective date of section 14 on the progress of the Firearms License to Carry Modernization Account. See section 15 of Act 66 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to effective date.
1997 Amendment. Act 5 amended subsec. (a).
1995 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsecs. (a), (f) and (h).
Cross References. Section 6109 is referred to in sections 913, 6105, 6105.2, 6106, 6107, 6111, 6115, 6124 of this title; section 6108 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); sections 2325, 2525 of Title 34 (Game).
§ 6110. Persons to whom delivery shall not be made (Repealed).
1995 Repeal. Section 6110 was repealed June 13, 1995 (1st Sp.Sess., P.L.1024, No.17), effective in 120 days.
§ 6110.1. Possession of firearm by minor.
(a) Firearm.--Except as provided in subsection (b), a person under 18 years of age shall not possess or transport a firearm anywhere in this Commonwealth.
(2) who is lawfully hunting or trapping in accordance with 34 Pa.C.S. (relating to game).
(c) Responsibility of adult.--Any person who knowingly and intentionally delivers or provides to the minor a firearm in violation of subsection (a) commits a felony of the third degree.
(d) Forfeiture.--Any firearm in the possession of a person under 18 years of age in violation of this section shall be promptly seized by the arresting law enforcement officer and upon conviction or adjudication of delinquency shall be forfeited or, if stolen, returned to the lawful owner.
1995 Amendments. Act 17, 1st Sp.Sess., added section 6110.1 and Act 66 amended subsec. (b).
Cross References. Section 6110.1 is referred to in sections 6105, 6115 of this title.
§ 6110.2. Possession of firearm with altered manufacturer's number.
(a) General rule.--No person shall possess a firearm which has had the manufacturer's number integral to the frame or receiver altered, changed, removed or obliterated.
(b) Penalty.--A person who violates this section commits a felony of the second degree.
(c) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "firearm" shall have the same meaning as that term is defined in section 6105(i) (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms), except that the term shall not include antique firearms as defined in section 6118 (relating to antique firearms).
§ 6111. Sale or transfer of firearms.
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), no seller shall deliver a firearm to the purchaser or transferee thereof until 48 hours shall have elapsed from the time of the application for the purchase thereof, and, when delivered, the firearm shall be securely wrapped and shall be unloaded.
(2) Thirty days after publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin that the Instantaneous Criminal History Records Check System has been established in accordance with the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (Public Law 103-159, 18 U.S.C. § 921 et seq.), no seller shall deliver a firearm to the purchaser thereof until the provisions of this section have been satisfied, and, when delivered, the firearm shall be securely wrapped and shall be unloaded.
(i) In the event of an electronic failure under section 6111.1(b)(2) (relating to Pennsylvania State Police) for purposes of a firearm which exceeds the barrel and related lengths set forth in section 6102, obtained a completed application/record of sale from the potential buyer or transferee to be filled out in triplicate, the original copy to be sent to the Pennsylvania State Police, postmarked via first class mail, within 14 days of sale, one copy to be retained by the licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed dealer for a period of 20 years and one copy to be provided to the purchaser or transferee.
(ii) The form of the application/record of sale shall be no more than one page in length and shall be promulgated by the Pennsylvania State Police and provided by the licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed dealer.
(iii) For purposes of conducting the criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records background check which shall be completed within ten days of receipt of the information from the dealer, the application/record of sale shall include the name, address, birthdate, gender, race, physical description and Social Security number of the purchaser or transferee and the date of application.
(iv) No information regarding the type of firearm need be included other than an indication that the firearm exceeds the barrel lengths set forth in section 6102.
(v) Unless it has been discovered pursuant to a criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records background check that the potential purchaser or transferee is prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms), no information on the application/record of sale provided pursuant to this subsection shall be retained as precluded by section 6111.4 (relating to registration of firearms) by the Pennsylvania State Police either through retention of the application/record of sale or by entering the information onto a computer, and, further, an application/record of sale received by the Pennsylvania State Police pursuant to this subsection shall be destroyed within 72 hours of the completion of the criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records background check.
(1.2) Fees collected under paragraph (3) and section 6111.2 (relating to firearm sales surcharge) shall be transmitted to the Pennsylvania State Police within 14 days of collection.
(1.3) In addition to the criminal penalty under section 6119 (relating to violation penalty), any person who knowingly and intentionally maintains or fails to destroy any information submitted to the Pennsylvania State Police for purposes of a background check pursuant to paragraphs (1.1) and (1.4) or violates section 6111.4 shall be subject to a civil penalty of $250 per violation, entry or failure to destroy.
(1.4) Following implementation of the instantaneous records check by the Pennsylvania State Police on or before December 1, 1998, no application/record of sale shall be completed for the purchase or transfer of a firearm which exceeds the barrel lengths set forth in section 6102. A statement shall be submitted by the dealer to the Pennsylvania State Police, postmarked via first class mail, within 14 days of the sale, containing the number of firearms sold which exceed the barrel and related lengths set forth in section 6102, the amount of surcharge and other fees remitted and a list of the unique approval numbers given pursuant to paragraph (4), together with a statement that the background checks have been performed on the firearms contained in the statement. The form of the statement relating to performance of background checks shall be promulgated by the Pennsylvania State Police.
(2) Inspected photoidentification of the potential purchaser or transferee, including, but not limited to, a driver's license, official Pennsylvania photoidentification card or official government photoidentification card. In the case of a potential buyer or transferee who is a member of a recognized religious sect or community whose tenets forbid or discourage the taking of photographs of members of that sect or community, a seller shall accept a valid-without-photo driver's license or a combination of documents, as prescribed by the Pennsylvania State Police, containing the applicant's name, address, date of birth and the signature of the applicant.
(3) Requested by means of a telephone call that the Pennsylvania State Police conduct a criminal history, juvenile delinquency history and a mental health record check. The purchaser and the licensed dealer shall provide such information as is necessary to accurately identify the purchaser. The requester shall be charged a fee equivalent to the cost of providing the service but not to exceed $2 per buyer or transferee.
(4) Received a unique approval number for that inquiry from the Pennsylvania State Police and recorded the date and the number on the application/record of sale form.
(5) Issued a receipt containing the information from paragraph (4), including the unique approval number of the purchaser. This receipt shall be prima facie evidence of the purchaser's or transferee's compliance with the provisions of this section.
(6) Unless it has been discovered pursuant to a criminal history, juvenile delinquency and mental health records background check that the potential purchaser or transferee is prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to section 6105, no information received via telephone following the implementation of the instantaneous background check system from a purchaser or transferee who has received a unique approval number shall be retained by the Pennsylvania State Police.
(7) For purposes of the enforcement of 18 U.S.C. § 922(d)(9), (g)(1) and (s)(1) (relating to unlawful acts), in the event the criminal history or juvenile delinquency background check indicates a conviction for a misdemeanor that the Pennsylvania State Police cannot determine is or is not related to an act of domestic violence, the Pennsylvania State Police shall issue a temporary delay of the approval of the purchase or transfer. During the temporary delay, the Pennsylvania State Police shall conduct a review or investigation of the conviction with courts, local police departments, district attorneys and other law enforcement or related institutions as necessary to determine whether or not the misdemeanor conviction involved an act of domestic violence. The Pennsylvania State Police shall conduct the review or investigation as expeditiously as possible. No firearm may be transferred by the dealer to the purchaser who is the subject of the investigation during the temporary delay. The Pennsylvania State Police shall notify the dealer of the termination of the temporary delay and either deny the sale or provide the unique approval number under paragraph (4).
(c) Duty of other persons.--Any person who is not a licensed importer, manufacturer or dealer and who desires to sell or transfer a firearm to another unlicensed person shall do so only upon the place of business of a licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer or county sheriff's office, the latter of whom shall follow the procedure set forth in this section as if he were the seller of the firearm. The provisions of this section shall not apply to transfers between spouses or to transfers between a parent and child or to transfers between grandparent and grandchild.
(d) Defense.--Compliance with the provisions of this section shall be a defense to any criminal complaint under the laws of this Commonwealth or other claim or cause of action under this chapter arising from the sale or transfer of any firearm.
(1) Any firearm manufactured on or before 1898.
(2) Any firearm with a matchlock, flintlock or percussion cap type of ignition system.
(ii) uses rimfire or conventional center fire fixed ammunition which is no longer manufactured in the United States and which is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.
(1) For the purposes of this section only, except as provided by paragraph (2), "firearm" shall mean any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
(2) The provisions contained in subsections (a) and (c) shall only apply to pistols or revolvers with a barrel length of less than 15 inches, any shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, any rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or any firearm with an overall length of less than 26 inches.
(3) The provisions contained in subsection (a) shall not apply to any law enforcement officer whose current identification as a law enforcement officer shall be construed as a valid license to carry a firearm or any person who possesses a valid license to carry a firearm under section 6109 (relating to licenses).
(4) (i) The provisions of subsection (a) shall not apply to any person who presents to the seller or transferor a written statement issued by the official described in subparagraph (iii) during the ten-day period ending on the date of the most recent proposal of such transfer or sale by the transferee or purchaser stating that the transferee or purchaser requires access to a firearm because of a threat to the life of the transferee or purchaser or any member of the household of that transferee or purchaser.
(ii) The issuing official shall notify the applicant's local police authority that such a statement has been issued. In counties of the first class the chief of police shall notify the police station or substation closest to the applicant's residence.
(iii) The statement issued under subparagraph (ii) shall be issued by the district attorney, or his designee, of the county of residence if the transferee or purchaser resides in a municipality where there is no chief of police. Otherwise, the statement shall be issued by the chief of police in the municipality in which the purchaser or transferee resides.
(1) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer or licensed importer who knowingly or intentionally sells, delivers or transfers a firearm in violation of this section commits a misdemeanor of the second degree.
(2) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer or licensed importer who knowingly or intentionally sells, delivers or transfers a firearm under circumstances intended to provide a firearm to any person, purchaser or transferee who is unqualified or ineligible to control, possess or use a firearm under this chapter commits a felony of the third degree and shall in addition be subject to revocation of the license to sell firearms for a period of three years.
(3) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer or licensed importer who knowingly and intentionally requests a criminal history, juvenile delinquency or mental health record check or other confidential information from the Pennsylvania State Police under this chapter for any purpose other than compliance with this chapter or knowingly and intentionally disseminates any criminal history, juvenile delinquency or mental health record or other confidential information to any person other than the subject of the information commits a felony of the third degree.
(3.1) Any person, licensed dealer, licensed manufacturer or licensed importer who knowingly and intentionally obtains or furnishes information collected or maintained pursuant to section 6109 for any purpose other than compliance with this chapter or who knowingly or intentionally disseminates, publishes or otherwise makes available such information to any person other than the subject of the information commits a felony of the third degree.
(iii) willfully furnishes or exhibits any false identification intended or likely to deceive the seller, licensed dealer or licensed manufacturer.
(5) Notwithstanding section 306 (relating to liability for conduct of another; complicity) or any other statute to the contrary, any person, licensed importer, licensed dealer or licensed manufacturer who knowingly and intentionally sells, delivers or transfers a firearm in violation of this chapter who has reason to believe that the firearm is intended to be used in the commission of a crime or attempt to commit a crime shall be criminally liable for such crime or attempted crime.
(6) Notwithstanding any act or statute to the contrary, any person, licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed dealer who knowingly and intentionally sells or delivers a firearm in violation of this chapter who has reason to believe that the firearm is intended to be used in the commission of a crime or attempt to commit a crime shall be liable in the amount of the civil judgment for injuries suffered by any person so injured by such crime or attempted crime.
(1) A second or subsequent violation of this section shall be a felony of the second degree. A person who at the time of sentencing has been convicted of another offense under this section shall be sentenced to a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment of five years. A second or subsequent offense shall also result in permanent revocation of any license to sell, import or manufacture a firearm.
(2) Notice of the applicability of this subsection to the defendant and reasonable notice of the Commonwealth's intention to proceed under this section shall be provided prior to trial. The applicability of this section shall be determined at sentencing. The court shall consider evidence presented at trial, shall afford the Commonwealth and the defendant an opportunity to present necessary additional evidence and shall determine by a preponderance of the evidence if this section is applicable.
(3) There shall be no authority for a court to impose on a defendant to which this subsection is applicable a lesser sentence than provided for in paragraph (1), to place the defendant on probation or to suspend sentence. Nothing in this section shall prevent the sentencing court from imposing a sentence greater than that provided in this section. Sentencing guidelines promulgated by the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing shall not supersede the mandatory sentences provided in this section.
(4) If a sentencing court refuses to apply this subsection where applicable, the Commonwealth shall have the right to appellate review of the action of the sentencing court. The appellate court shall vacate the sentence and remand the case to the sentencing court for imposition of a sentence in accordance with this section if it finds that the sentence was imposed in violation of this subsection.
(5) For the purposes of this subsection, a person shall be deemed to have been convicted of another offense under this section whether or not judgment of sentence has been imposed for that violation.
(i) Confidentiality.--All information provided by the potential purchaser, transferee or applicant, including, but not limited to, the potential purchaser, transferee or applicant's name or identity, furnished by a potential purchaser or transferee under this section or any applicant for a license to carry a firearm as provided by section 6109 shall be confidential and not subject to public disclosure. In addition to any other sanction or penalty imposed by this chapter, any person, licensed dealer, State or local governmental agency or department that violates this subsection shall be liable in civil damages in the amount of $1,000 per occurrence or three times the actual damages incurred as a result of the violation, whichever is greater, as well as reasonable attorney fees.
(ii) the purchase of firearms by a chief law enforcement officer or his designee, for the official use of law enforcement officers.
(2) For the purposes of this subsection, the term "chief law enforcement officer" shall include the Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, the chief or head of a police department, a county sheriff or any equivalent law enforcement official.
2012 Amendment. Act 199 amended subsec. (h).
2008 Amendment. Act 131 amended subsecs. (b)(1), (g)(4) and (j).
2000 Amendment. Act 101 amended subsec. (j).
1998 Amendments. Act 70 amended subsecs. (b)(1.1) intro. par. and (i), (1.4) and (3) and (g)(3) and added subsecs. (b)(7) and (g)(3.1) and Act 121 amended subsec. (b)(1.4). Act 121 overlooked the amendment by Act 70, but the amendments do not conflict in substance (except for the date, as to which Act 121 has been given effect) and have both been given effect in setting forth the text of subsec. (b)(1.4).
1997 Amendment. Act 5 amended the entire section, effective immediately as to subsec. (b)(1.1) and 60 days as to the remainder of the section.
Cross References. Section 6111 is referred to in sections 6109, 6111.1, 6111.2, 6111.3, 6113 of this title; section 6108.3 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations); section 5552 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure).
§ 6111.1. Pennsylvania State Police.
(a) Administration.--The Pennsylvania State Police shall have the responsibility to administer the provisions of this chapter.
(B) provide the licensee with a unique approval number.
(2) In the event of electronic failure, scheduled computer downtime or similar event beyond the control of the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania State Police shall immediately notify the requesting licensee of the reason for and estimated length of the delay. If the failure or event lasts for a period exceeding 48 hours, the dealer shall not be subject to any penalty for completing a transaction absent the completion of an instantaneous records check for the remainder of the failure or similar event, but the dealer shall obtain a completed application/record of sale following the provisions of section 6111(b)(1) and (1.1) (relating to sale or transfer of firearms) as if an instantaneous records check has not been established for any sale or transfer of a firearm for the purpose of a subsequent background check.
(i) The instantaneous background check for firearms as defined in section 6102 (relating to definitions) shall begin on July 1, 1998.
(4) The Pennsylvania State Police and any local law enforcement agency shall make all reasonable efforts to determine the lawful owner of any firearm confiscated or recovered by the Pennsylvania State Police or any local law enforcement agency and return said firearm to its lawful owner if the owner is not otherwise prohibited from possessing the firearm. When a court of law has determined that the Pennsylvania State Police or any local law enforcement agency have failed to exercise the duty under this subsection, reasonable attorney fees shall be awarded to any lawful owner of said firearm who has sought judicial enforcement of this subsection.
(c) Establish a telephone number.--The Pennsylvania State Police shall establish a telephone number which shall be operational seven days a week between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time for purposes of responding to inquiries as described in this section from licensed manufacturers, licensed importers and licensed dealers. The Pennsylvania State Police shall employ and train such personnel as are necessary to administer expeditiously the provisions of this section.
(d) Distribution.--The Pennsylvania State Police shall provide, without charge, summaries of uniform firearm laws and firearm safety brochures pursuant to section 6125 (relating to distribution of uniform firearm laws and firearm safety brochures).
(1) Any person who is denied the right to receive, sell, transfer, possess, carry, manufacture or purchase a firearm as a result of the procedures established by this section may challenge the accuracy of that person's criminal history, juvenile delinquency history or mental health record pursuant to a denial by the instantaneous records check by submitting a challenge to the Pennsylvania State Police within 30 days from the date of the denial.
(2) The Pennsylvania State Police shall conduct a review of the accuracy of the information forming the basis for the denial and shall have the burden of proving the accuracy of the record. Within 20 days after receiving a challenge, the Pennsylvania State Police shall notify the challenger of the basis for the denial, including, but not limited to, the jurisdiction and docket number of any relevant court decision and provide the challenger an opportunity to provide additional information for the purposes of the review. The Pennsylvania State Police shall communicate its final decision to the challenger within 60 days of the receipt of the challenge. The decision of the Pennsylvania State Police shall include all information which formed a basis for the decision.
(3) If the challenge is ruled invalid, the person shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Attorney General within 30 days of the decision. The Attorney General shall conduct a hearing de novo in accordance with the Administrative Agency Law. The burden of proof shall be upon the Commonwealth.
(4) The decision of the Attorney General may be appealed to the Commonwealth Court by an aggrieved party.
(ii) any finding of fact or court order related to any person described in 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3).
(2) The notification shall be transmitted by the judge to the Pennsylvania State Police within seven days of the adjudication, commitment or treatment.
(3) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the Pennsylvania State Police may disclose, electronically or otherwise, to the United States Attorney General or a designee, any record relevant to a determination of whether a person is disqualified from possessing or receiving a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922 (g)(3) or (4) or an applicable state statute.
(1) Upon receipt of a copy of the order of a court of competent jurisdiction which vacates a final order or an involuntary certification issued by a mental health review officer, the Pennsylvania State Police shall expunge all records of the involuntary treatment received under subsection (f).
(2) A person who is involuntarily committed pursuant to section 302 of the Mental Health Procedures Act may petition the court to review the sufficiency of the evidence upon which the commitment was based. If the court determines that the evidence upon which the involuntary commitment was based was insufficient, the court shall order that the record of the commitment submitted to the Pennsylvania State Police be expunged. A petition filed under this subsection shall toll the 60-day period set forth under section 6105(a)(2).
(3) The Pennsylvania State Police shall expunge all records of an involuntary commitment of an individual who is discharged from a mental health facility based upon the initial review by the physician occurring within two hours of arrival under section 302(b) of the Mental Health Procedures Act and the physician's determination that no severe mental disability existed pursuant to section 302(b) of the Mental Health Procedures Act. The physician shall provide signed confirmation of the determination of the lack of severe mental disability following the initial examination under section 302(b) of the Mental Health Procedures Act to the Pennsylvania State Police.
(i) The child has been adjudicated delinquent by a court as a result of an act or acts which constitute any offense enumerated in section 6105.
(ii) A petition alleging delinquency has been filed by a law enforcement agency alleging that the child has committed an act or acts which constitute an offense enumerated in section 6105 and the child previously has been adjudicated delinquent by a court as a result of an act or acts which included the elements of one of such crimes.
(2) Notwithstanding any provision of this subsection, the contents of law enforcement records and files concerning any child adjudicated delinquent for the commission of any criminal activity described in paragraph (1) shall be recorded in the registry of the Pennsylvania State Police for the limited purposes of this chapter.
(4) uniform crime reporting statistics compiled by the Pennsylvania State Police based on the National Incident-based Reporting System.
(j) Other criminal information.--The Pennsylvania State Police shall be authorized to obtain any crime statistics necessary for the purposes of this chapter from any local law enforcement agency.
(j.1) Delinquency and mental health records.--The provisions of this section which relate to juvenile delinquency and mental health records checks shall be applicable when the data has been made available to the Pennsylvania State Police but not later than October 11, 1999.
(j.2) Records check.--The provisions of this section which relate to the instantaneous records check conducted by telephone shall be applicable 30 days following notice by the Pennsylvania State Police pursuant to section 6111(a)(2).
(j.3) Immunity.--The Pennsylvania State Police and its employees shall be immune from actions for damages for the use of a firearm by a purchaser or for the unlawful transfer of a firearm by a dealer unless the act of the Pennsylvania State Police or its employees constitutes a crime, actual fraud, actual malice or willful misconduct.
"Firearm." The term shall have the same meaning as in section 6111.2 (relating to firearm sales surcharge).
"Physician." Any licensed psychiatrist or clinical psychologist as defined in the act of July 9, 1976 (P.L.817, No.143), known as the Mental Health Procedures Act.
2016 Unconstitutionality. Act 192 of 2014 was declared unconstitutional. Leach v. Commonwealth, 141 A.3d 426 (Pa. 2016). The Legislative Reference Bureau effectuated the 2016 unconstitutionality.
2014 Amendment. Act 192 amended subsecs. (f)(3) and (g)(1) and (3).
2008 Amendment. Act 131 amended subsecs. (b)(4), (e) and (f), effective immediately as to subsec. (e) and 60 days as to the remainder of the section.
1998 Amendments. Act 70 amended subsecs. (b)(3) and (e) and added subsec. (j.3) and Act 121 amended subsec. (b)(3). Act 121 overlooked the amendment by Act 70, but the amendments do not conflict in substance (except for the date, as to which Act 121 has been given effect) and have both been given effect in setting forth the text of subsec. (b)(3).
1997 Amendment. Act 5 amended subsecs. (b)(2) and (k).
1995 Amendments. Act 17, 1st Sp.Sess., added section 6111.1 and Act 66 amended subsecs. (b), (d), (e), (f), (g), (h) and (i) and added subsecs. (j.1) and (j.2).
Cross References. Section 6111.1 is referred to in sections 6106, 6111 of this title.
§ 6111.2. Firearm sales surcharge.
(a) Surcharge imposed.--There is hereby imposed on each sale of a firearm subject to tax under Article II of the act of March 4, 1971 (P.L.6, No.2), known as the Tax Reform Code of 1971, an additional surcharge of $3. This shall be referred to as the Firearm Sale Surcharge. All moneys received from this surcharge shall be deposited in the Firearm Instant Records Check Fund.
(b) Increases or decreases.--Five years from the effective date of this subsection, and every five years thereafter, the Pennsylvania State Police shall provide such information as necessary to the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee for the purpose of reviewing the need to increase or decrease the instant check fee. The committee shall issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly for a statutory change in the fee.
(c) Revenue sources.--Funds received under the provisions of this section and section 6111(b)(3) (relating to sale or transfer of firearms), as estimated and certified by the Secretary of Revenue, shall be deposited within five days of the end of each quarter into the fund.
(d) Definition.--As used in this section only, the term "firearm" shall mean any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosion or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
References in Text. The Firearm Instant Records Check Fund, referred to in subsec. (a), is now the Firearm Records Check Fund.
Cross References. Section 6111.2 is referred to in sections 6111, 6111.1, 6111.3 of this title.
§ 6111.3. Firearm Records Check Fund.
(a) Establishment.--The Firearm Records Check Fund is hereby established as a restricted account in the State Treasury, separate and apart from all other public money or funds of the Commonwealth, to be appropriated annually by the General Assembly, for use in carrying out the provisions of section 6111 (relating to firearm ownership). The moneys in the fund on June 1, 1998, are hereby appropriated to the Pennsylvania State Police.
(b) Source.--The source of the fund shall be moneys collected and transferred under section 6111.2 (relating to firearm sales surcharge) and moneys collected and transferred under section 6111(b)(3).
1998 Amendment. Act 70 amended the section heading and subsec. (a).
1995 Amendments. Act 17, 1st Sp.Sess., added section 6111.3 and Act 66 amended the section heading.
Cross References. Section 6111.3 is referred to in section 6102 of this title.
§ 6111.5. Rules and regulations.
The Pennsylvania State Police shall in the manner provided by law promulgate the rules and regulations necessary to carry out this chapter, including regulations to ensure the identity, confidentiality and security of all records and data provided pursuant hereto.
1995 Amendment. Act 17, 1st Sp.Sess., added section 6111.5.
§ 6112. Retail dealer required to be licensed.
No retail dealer shall sell, or otherwise transfer or expose for sale or transfer, or have in his possession with intent to sell or transfer, any firearm as defined in section 6113(d) (relating to licensing of dealers) without being licensed as provided in this chapter.
Cross References. Section 6112 is referred to in section 6113 of this title.
§ 6113. Licensing of dealers.
(1) The business shall be carried on only upon the premises designated in the license or at a lawful gun show or meet.
(2) The license, or a copy thereof, certified by the issuing authority, shall be displayed on the premises where it can easily be read.
(3) No firearm shall be sold in violation of any provision of this subchapter.
(4) No firearm shall be sold under any circumstances unless the purchaser is personally known to the seller or shall present clear evidence of the purchaser's identity.
(5) A true record in triplicate shall be made of every firearm sold, in a book kept for the purpose, the form of which may be prescribed by the Pennsylvania State Police, and shall be personally signed by the purchaser and by the person effecting the sale, each in the presence of the other, and shall contain the information required by section 6111. The record shall be maintained by the licensee for a period of 20 years.
(6) No firearm as defined in section 6102 (relating to definitions) shall be displayed in any part of any premises where it can readily be seen from the outside. In the event that the Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police shall find a clear and present danger to public safety within this Commonwealth or any area thereof, firearms shall be stored and safeguarded pursuant to regulations to be established by the Pennsylvania State Police by the licensee during the hours when the licensee is closed for business.
(7) The dealer shall possess all applicable current revenue licenses.
(b) Fee.--The fee for issuing said license shall be $30, which fee shall be paid into the county treasury.
(c) Revocation.--Any license granted under subsection (a) of this section may be revoked for cause by the person issuing the same, upon written notice to the holder thereof.
(d) Definitions.--For the purposes of this section and section 6112 (relating to retail dealer required to be licensed) only unless otherwise specifically provided, the term "firearm" shall include any weapon that is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
1998 Amendment. Act 70 amended subsecs. (a)(5) and (d).
1995 Amendment. Act 66 amended subsec. (a).
Cross References. Section 6113 is referred to in sections 6105, 6105.2, 6112 of this title; section 6108.2 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).
The action of the chief of police, sheriff, county treasurer or other officer under this subchapter shall be subject to judicial review in the manner and within the time provided by 2 Pa.C.S. Ch. 7 Subch. B (relating to judicial review of local agency action). A judgment sustaining a refusal to grant a license shall not bar, after one year, a new application; nor shall a judgment in favor of the petitioner prevent the defendant from thereafter revoking or refusing to renew such license for any proper cause which may thereafter occur. The court shall have full power to dispose of all costs.
§ 6115. Loans on, or lending or giving firearms prohibited.
(a) Offense defined.--No person shall make any loan secured by mortgage, deposit or pledge of a firearm, nor, except as provided in subsection (b), shall any person lend or give a firearm to another or otherwise deliver a firearm contrary to the provisions of this subchapter.
(i) The person who receives the firearm is licensed to carry a firearm under section 6109 (relating to licenses).
(iii) The person who receives the firearm is engaged in a hunter safety program certified by the Pennsylvania Game Commission or a firearm training program or competition sanctioned or approved by the National Rifle Association.
(II) is not prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms).
(v) The person who receives the firearm is lawfully hunting or trapping and is in compliance with the provisions of Title 34 (relating to game).
(vi) A bank or other chartered lending institution is able to adequately secure firearms in its possession.
(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the transfer of a firearm under 20 Pa.C.S. Ch. 21 (relating to intestate succession) or by bequest if the individual receiving the firearm is not precluded from owning or possessing a firearm under section 6105.
(3) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the loaning or giving of a firearm to another in one's dwelling or place of business if the firearm is retained within the dwelling or place of business.
(4) Nothing in this section shall prohibit the relinquishment of firearms to a third party in accordance with 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108.3 (relating to relinquishment to third party for safekeeping).
2005 Amendment. Act 66 added subsec. (b)(4).
Cross References. Section 6115 is referred to in section 6108.3 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).
§ 6116. False evidence of identity.
In addition to any other penalty provided in this chapter, the furnishing of false information or offering false evidence of identity is a violation of section 4904 (relating to unsworn falsification to authorities).
§ 6117. Altering or obliterating marks of identification.
(a) Offense defined.--No person shall change, alter, remove, or obliterate the manufacturer's number integral to the frame or receiver of any firearm which shall have the same meaning as provided in section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms).
(c) Penalty.--A violation of this section constitutes a felony of the second degree.
(d) Appellate review.--(Deleted by amendment).
(a) General rule.--This subchapter shall not apply to antique firearms.
(b) Exception.--Subsection (a) shall not apply to the extent that such antique firearms, reproductions or replicas of firearms are concealed weapons as provided in section 6106 (relating to firearms not be carried without a license), nor shall it apply to the provisions of section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms) if such antique firearms, reproductions or replicas of firearms are suitable for use.
(1) Any firearm with a matchlock, flintlock or percussion cap type of ignition system.
(2) Any firearm manufactured on or before 1898.
Cross References. Section 6118 is referred to in sections 6110.2, 6142 of this title.
Except as otherwise specifically provided, an offense under this subchapter constitutes a misdemeanor of the first degree.
Cross References. Section 6119 is referred to in section 6111 of this title.
"Dealer." The term shall include any person engaged in the business of selling at wholesale or retail a firearm or ammunition.
"Firearms." This term shall have the meaning given to it in section 5515 (relating to prohibiting of paramilitary training) but shall not include air rifles as that term is defined in section 6304 (relating to sale and use of air rifles).
"Political subdivision." The term shall include any home rule charter municipality, county, city, borough, incorporated town, township or school district.
2014 Amendment. Act 192 amended subsec. (b) and added subsecs. (a.2) and (a.3).
§ 6121. Certain bullets prohibited.
(a) Offense defined.--It is unlawful for any person to possess, use or attempt to use a KTW teflon-coated bullet or other armor-piercing ammunition while committing or attempting to commit a crime of violence as defined in section 6102 (relating to definitions).
(b) Grading.--An offense under this section constitutes a felony of the third degree.
(c) Sentencing.--Any person who is convicted in any court of this Commonwealth of a crime of violence and who uses or carries, in the commission of that crime, a firearm loaded with KTW ammunition or any person who violates this section shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of the crime, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than five years. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the court shall not suspend the sentence of any person convicted of a crime subject to this subsection nor place him on probation nor shall the term of imprisonment run concurrently with any other term of imprisonment including that imposed for the crime in which the KTW ammunition was being used or carried. No person sentenced under this subsection shall be eligible for parole.
(d) Definition.--As used in this section the term "armor-piercing ammunition" means ammunition which, when or if fired from any firearm as defined in section 6102 that is used or attempted to be used in violation of subsection (a) under the test procedure of the National Institute of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Standard for the Ballistics Resistance of Police Body Armor promulgated December 1978, is determined to be capable of penetrating bullet-resistant apparel or body armor meeting the requirements of Type IIA of Standard NILECJ-STD-0101.01 as formulated by the United States Department of Justice and published in December of 1978.
1984 Amendment. Act 230 added section 6121.
§ 6122. Proof of license and exception.
(a) General rule.--When carrying a firearm concealed on or about one's person or in a vehicle, an individual licensed to carry a firearm shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement officer, produce the license for inspection. Failure to produce such license either at the time of arrest or at the preliminary hearing shall create a rebuttable presumption of nonlicensure.
(b) Exception.--An individual carrying a firearm on or about his person or in a vehicle and claiming an exception under section 6106(b) (relating to firearms not to be carried without a license) shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement officer, produce satisfactory evidence of qualification for exception.
1988 Amendment. Act 158 added section 6122.
§ 6123. Waiver of disability or pardons.
A waiver of disability from Federal authorities as provided for in 18 U.S.C. § 925 (relating to exceptions; relief from disabilities), a full pardon from the Governor or an overturning of a conviction shall remove any corresponding disability under this subchapter except the disability under section 6105 (relating to persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms).
Cross References. Section 6123 is referred to in section 6109 of this title.
(1) License to carry firearms.
(4) Application for purchase of a firearm.
(5) Record of sale of firearms.
1988 Amendment. Act 158 added section 6124.
§ 6125. Distribution of uniform firearm laws and firearm safety brochures.
It shall be the duty of the Pennsylvania State Police beginning January 1, 1996, to distribute to every licensed firearm dealer in this Commonwealth firearms safety brochures at no cost to the dealer. The brochures shall be written by the Pennsylvania State Police, with the cooperation of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and shall include a summary of the major provisions of this subchapter, including, but not limited to, the duties of the sellers and purchasers and the transferees of firearms. The brochure or a copy thereof shall be provided without charge to each purchaser.
Cross References. Section 6125 is referred to in section 6111.1 of this title.
§ 6126. Firearms Background Check Advisory Committee (Expired).
2002 Expiration. Section 6126 expired November 30, 2002. See Act 101 of 2001.
(a) Illegal possession.--Upon confiscating or recovering a firearm from the possession of anyone who is not permitted by Federal or State law to possess a firearm, a local law enforcement agency shall use the best available information, including a firearms trace where necessary, to determine how and from where the person gained possession of the firearm.
(b) Tracing.--Local law enforcement shall use the National Tracing Center of the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in complying with subsection (a).
(c) Notification.--Local law enforcement agencies shall advise the Pennsylvania State Police of all firearms that are recovered in accordance with this section.
2008 Amendment. Act 131 amended subsec. (a).
2007 Amendment. Act 41 added section 6127.
§ 6128. Abandonment of firearms, weapons or ammunition.
(1) Relinquished by its lawful owner pursuant to court order or executed warrant, and no written request to return or otherwise dispose of the firearms, weapons or ammunition is made by the lawful owner or the lawful owner's attorney or duly appointed representative after a period of one year from the date an order of relinquishment or seizure has expired.
(2) Found, discovered or otherwise passed into the custody of the police department, Pennsylvania State Police, coroner, medical examiner, district attorney, sheriff or licensed dealer and no owner can be determined after a documented search of the database of firearms sales maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police is made at the time the firearms come into the custody of the police department, coroner, medical examiner, district attorney, sheriff or licensed dealer and is again made one year from the date of the first documented search.
(1) Arranging for the sale of the firearms, weapons or ammunition to a federally licensed firearms dealer by sealed bid with proceeds of the sale to be retained by the custodian.
(2) Arranging for the lawful and complete destruction of the firearms, weapons or ammunition. Firearms, weapons or ammunition that cannot lawfully be sold to a federally licensed firearms dealer in this Commonwealth shall be destroyed.
(4) the address of the person relinquishing the firearms, weapons or ammunition which is found after searching the available sources of address data maintained in the Commonwealth's databases of motor vehicle registration, motor vehicle driver licensing, occupational and professional licensure, corrections facilities and public assistance.
(d) Illegal seizure.--A custodian who sells or destroys seized firearms, weapons or ammunition with pending or unresolved evidentiary challenges to the legality of the seizure shall be liable to the lawful owner of the illegally seized firearms, weapons or ammunition for the actual value of the illegally seized firearms, weapons or ammunition plus reasonable attorney fees. Actual value shall be determined by the owner, who shall be required to obtain an estimate of value from a private third-party licensed firearms dealer.
(3) after redaction of information listing firearms, other weapons or ammunition.
"Custodian." A police department, Pennsylvania State Police, coroner, medical examiner, district attorney, sheriff or licensed dealer into whose custody firearms, weapons or ammunition has passed.
"Firearm." Any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon.
2018 Amendment. Act 79 added section 6128. Act 79 shall apply to orders issued pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108 on or after the effective date of section 11 of Act 79.
Cross References. Section 6128 is referred to in sections 6108, 6108.1 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).
6141. Purchase of firearms in contiguous states (Repealed).
6141.1. Purchase of rifles and shotguns outside this Commonwealth.
6142. Locking device for firearms.
§ 6141. Purchase of firearms in contiguous states (Repealed).
1997 Repeal. Section 6141 was repealed April 22, 1997 (P.L.73, No.5), effective in 60 days.
§ 6141.1. Purchase of rifles and shotguns outside this Commonwealth.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a person in this Commonwealth who may lawfully purchase, possess, use, control, sell, transfer or manufacture a firearm which exceeds the barrel and related lengths set forth in section 6102 (relating to definitions) from lawfully purchasing or otherwise obtaining such a firearm in a jurisdiction outside this Commonwealth.
1997 Amendment. Act 5 added section 6141.1.
§ 6142. Locking device for firearms.
(a) Offense defined.--It shall be unlawful for any licensee to sell, deliver or transfer any firearm as defined in section 6102 (relating to definitions), other than an antique firearm as defined in section 6118 (relating to antique firearms), to any other person, other than another licensee, unless the transferee is provided with or purchases a locking device for that firearm or the design of the firearm incorporates a locking device.
(b) Exceptions.--Firearms for transfer to or possession by any law enforcement officer employed by any Federal, State or local government entity or rail police employed and certified by a rail carrier as a police officer are not subject to the provisions of this section.
(c) Penalties.--A violation of the provisions of this section shall be a summary offense.
(d) Good faith compliance.--A licensee who in good faith complies with this section shall not be civilly liable as a result of such compliance with this section, except for any acts or omissions intentionally designed to harm or for grossly negligent acts or omissions which result in harm.
(e) Admissibility of evidence.--A transferee's purchase or receipt of a locking device in conjunction with the purchase of a firearm pursuant to this section shall not be admissible as evidence in any civil action brought against the transferee.
"Licensee." Any licensed manufacturer, importer or dealer of firearms.
(2) a device that is incorporated into the design of a firearm and that is designed to prevent the operation of the firearm by anyone not having access to the device.
1999 Amendment. Act 59 added section 6142.
Cross References. Section 6142 is referred to in section 6108.3 of Title 23 (Domestic Relations).
6161. Carrying explosives on conveyances.
§ 6161. Carrying explosives on conveyances.
(a) Offense defined.--A person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree if he enters into or upon any railroad train, locomotive, tender or car thereof, or into or upon any automobile or other conveyance used for the carrying of freight or passengers, having in his custody or about his person any nitroglycerine or other explosive, other than as freight regularly shipped as such.
(b) Powers of crew.--The conductor or person having charge and control of any railroad train, coach, or other conveyance for the carriage of freight or passengers, may arrest any person found violating the provisions of this section and detain such person until reaching some place, where such person may be delivered to a constable or other police authority.
(c) Venue.--It shall be lawful to prosecute such offenders in any county through which said public conveyance passes, without reference to the place where such offenders were arrested.
(a) Offense defined.--A person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree if he knowingly delivers, or causes to be delivered to any transportation company, or to any person engaged in the business of transportation, any explosive material adapted for blasting, or for any other purpose for which such articles may be used, under any false or deceptive invoice or description, or without informing the carrier at or before the time when such delivery is made, of the true nature of the same, and without having the keg, barrel, can or package containing the same plainly marked with the name of the explosive material therein contained, together with the word "dangerous."
(b) Damages.--Any person convicted of an offense under this section shall, in addition to any other penalty, be responsible for all damages to persons or property directly or indirectly resulting from the explosion of any such article.
(c) Opening of suspected containers.--Any person engaged in the business of transportation, upon affidavit made of the fact that any container tendered for transportation, not in compliance with the provisions of this section is believed to contain explosive material, may require such container to be opened, and refuse to receive any such container unless such requirement is complied with.
(d) Disposition of explosives.--If such container is opened and found to contain any explosive material, the container and its contents shall be forthwith removed to any lawful place for the storing of explosives. After conviction of the offender, or after three months from such removal, the container, with its contents, shall be sold at public sale, after the expiration of ten days from notice of the time and place of such sale, published in one newspaper in the county where such seizure shall have been made. The proceeds of such sale, after deducting therefrom the expenses of removal, storage, advertisement and sale, shall be paid into the treasury of the county.
6182. Legislative findings and declarations.
6184. Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program.
6185. Powers and duties of Attorney General.
6186. Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund.
6187. Transfer for initial funding.
Enactment. Subchapter D was added October 17, 2008, P.L.1628, No.131, effective 60 days.
§ 6181. Scope of subchapter.
This subchapter provides for the establishment of the Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program within the Office of Attorney General.
§ 6182. Legislative findings and declarations.
(1) The illegal purchase of firearms throughout this Commonwealth is a threat to public safety and security.
(2) Urban areas are experiencing increased violence as a result of criminal misuse of firearms. Stemming the flow of these illegal firearms through straw purchases will help to curb the crime rate throughout this Commonwealth and increase public safety.
(3) Educating the public that illegally purchasing a firearm for someone otherwise prohibited from possessing one is a serious crime and punishable under Federal law by ten years' imprisonment advances public safety.
(4) Committed to educating firearms dealers and the general public, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, in partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in July 2000 created the "Don't Lie for the Other Guy Program."
(5) The "Don't Lie for the Other Guy Program" was developed to raise public awareness that it is a serious crime to purchase a firearm for someone who cannot legally do so and to educate firearms dealers on how to better detect and deter potential straw purchases. The campaign delivers the message that anyone attempting an illegal firearm purchase faces a stiff Federal penalty.
(6) The "Don't Lie for the Other Guy Program" is vital to educating federally licensed firearms dealers and their employees on how to recognize and deter the illegal purchase of firearms through straw purchases. This program is an important tool for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to pursue its mission of preventing terrorism, reducing violent crime and protecting the public.
(7) The nationally recognized "Don't Lie for the Other Guy Program" has been endorsed by United States attorneys throughout the nation, various law enforcement agencies, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Department of Justice.
(8) It is in the best interest of this Commonwealth to establish a straw purchase prevention education program within the Office of Attorney General to provide resources and direct grant money to the "Don't Lie for the Other Guy Program" and similar programs that offer straw purchase prevention education.
"Fund." The Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund established in section 6186 (relating to Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund).
"Program." The Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program established in section 6184 (relating to Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program).
§ 6184. Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program.
(a) Establishment.--The Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program is established and shall provide resources and direct grant money to underwrite the cost of implementing an educational and public service outreach program in the community.
(1) Is a national trade association representing the shooting, hunting and firearm industry.
(2) Has a membership consisting of firearm manufacturers, firearm distributors, firearm retailers, publishers and sportsmen's organizations.
(3) Has been in existence for at least 45 years prior to the effective date of this section.
(c) Priority of grants.--Grants shall be prioritized based on the highest incidence of firearm violence in a county of this Commonwealth.
Cross References. Section 6184 is referred to in sections 6183, 6185 of this title.
§ 6185. Powers and duties of Attorney General.
(1) Establish a grant program to provide moneys from the fund pursuant to section 6184 (relating to Straw Purchase Prevention Education Program).
(2) Promulgate rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this subchapter.
§ 6186. Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund.
(a) Establishment.--The Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund is hereby established in the State Treasury as a restricted account. The fund shall consist of funds appropriated by the General Assembly.
(b) Continuing appropriation.--All moneys in the fund and the interest accruing thereon are hereby appropriated to the Office of Attorney General on a continuing basis to carry out the provisions of this subchapter.
Cross References. Section 6186 is referred to in section 6183 of this title.
§ 6187. Transfer for initial funding.
The sum of $100,000 is hereby transferred from the General Fund to the Straw Purchase Prevention Education Fund for expenditure during the fiscal year July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010, to carry out the provisions of this subchapter.

References: § 6101
 § 6102

§ 6103

§ 6104

§ 6105
 § 6108
 § 2154
 § 6108
 § 6107
 § 922
 § 6102
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6107
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 3802
 § 3731
 § 6108
 § 6107
 § 922
 § 6341
 § 6341
 § 922
 § 6108
 § 6108

§ 6105

§ 6105
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6108
 § 6108

§ 6107

§ 6108
 § 1991
 § 8951
 § 102

§ 6110

§ 6110

§ 6110

§ 6111
 § 921
 § 922

§ 6111
 § 922
 § 922
 v. 

§ 6111

§ 6111

§ 6111

§ 6112

§ 6113

§ 6115
 § 6108

§ 6116

§ 6117

§ 6121

§ 6122

§ 6123
 § 925

§ 6125

§ 6126

§ 6128
 § 6108

§ 6141

§ 6141

§ 6142

§ 6161

§ 6181

§ 6182

§ 6184

§ 6185

§ 6186

§ 6187