Bahamian Government to Amend Firearms Act to Restrict 3D Printed and Ghost Guns

The Bahamian government has announced plans to amend the Firearms Act to include restrictions on 3D printed guns, ghost guns, and high-powered firearms. These changes aim to address advancements in firearms technology and enhance public safety.

Attorney General Ryan Pinder highlighted the need for the new legislation, noting that the current Firearms Act, enacted in 1969 and amended up to 2014, has not kept pace with technological advancements. The new Firearms Bill, 2024, will provide broader coverage of illegal firearms and introduce tighter licensing requirements.

The bill will specifically target 3D printed guns and ghost guns, which are unregulated, have no manufacturer's name or serial number, and are impossible to trace. Pinder emphasized the inherent dangers of these weapons, stating, "The bill will apply specifically to ghost guns which are inherently dangerous, they are unregulated, have no manufacturer's name attached or serial number attached and are impossible to trace. We have those on our streets right now, guns that are impossible to trace."

In addition to restrictions on 3D printed and ghost guns, the new law will prohibit the acquisition of high-powered firearms, assault weapons, submachine and machine guns, as well as ammunition and components for these weapons. Accessories that can convert a licensed firearm into a prohibited weapon will also be banned.

The bill will introduce tighter licensing requirements for individuals with criminal backgrounds, substance abuse issues, or mental health disorders. Pinder explained the rationale behind these changes, stating, "We will soon be bringing a new Firearms Act to Parliament. The present Firearms Act was enacted in 1969 with numerous piecemeal amendments made up to 2014. Times have changed in The Bahamas; it's not rocket science ... firearms technology has advanced and sadly, we have not kept abreast of either."

Routine inspections of licensed firearms may be included to ensure they have not been illegally modified. This measure aims to prevent licensed firearms from being converted into automatic or other prohibited weapons.

The current Firearms Act, enacted in 1969 and amended up to 2014, has several loopholes that the new bill aims to address. For instance, there is no regulation for the use of 3D printers to produce firearm components, and there is no mechanism in place to inspect licensed firearms to ensure they have not been modified illegally.

Attorney General Pinder stressed the importance of updating the legislation to keep up with advancements in firearms technology and to enhance public safety. "Did you know that using a 3D printer you can print the components of a firearm, assemble it and have a working firearm and that is being done in this country right now?" he remarked.

The amendments to the Firearms Act reflect the Bahamian government's commitment to addressing the challenges posed by modern firearms technology and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

Key Takeaways

• Bahamas to amend Firearms Act to restrict 3D printed guns, ghost guns, and high-powered firearms.
• New law targets untraceable ghost guns and prohibits high-powered firearms and ammo.
• Tighter licensing requirements for individuals with criminal backgrounds, substance abuse, or mental health issues.
• Routine inspections of licensed firearms to prevent illegal modifications.
• Amendments aim to enhance public safety and address advancements in firearms technology.