On May 18, new rules concerning the sale or transfer of firearms came into effect. Here’s quick look at what’s involved.
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“Non-restricted firearms” includes any rifle or shotgun that is neither restricted nor prohibited. Most common long guns are non-restricted, with some exceptions. |
Duty to check identity
Individuals and businesses transferring or selling a non-restricted firearm will need to confirm the recipient’s identity and check the validity of their firearms licence before completing the transaction.
To do this, they will have to submit the information appearing on the licence to the Canadian Firearms Program via an online portal. If the licence is valid, a reference number will be provided, and the transaction can be completed. If the licence is not valid, the Chief Firearms Officer for Quebec will be notified about the request to acquire the firearm.
Duty to keep records
Businesses that sell firearms must also maintain records of all sales as well as an inventory of non-restricted firearms. They must keep records of every firearm they have in stock and every transaction they complete for 20 years.
Police can access this information if a judge authorizes it.