Change to expired license laws
From Act.
After years of pressure, we are pleased to let you know that the Government has announced sweeping new changes to firearms licensing in New Zealand. This is a great result. I want to thank the many of you who have contacted me over the past few years with your insights and feedback. Our continued advocacy has put the pressure on the Government, and we are seeing the outcomes.
The amendment means that licences will remain in effect until new applications are fully processed, so people will no longer be left in limbo as their licence expires while they are waiting to hear about their renewal. To be eligible for this you must apply for renewal before your current license expires.
Renewed licences will also take effect from the date of issue rather than the date of expiry. This will go a long way to gradually crushing the bell curve that exists from the shift from lifetime to 10 yearly firearms licences in 1992. Dealers will also be pleased to know that this new extension will also apply to them.
The amendment also means police can issue notices and documents electronically. ACT is supportive of this on the condition that receipt must be acknowledged. We will monitor this through the Select Committee process and ensure it receives the scrutiny it deserves.
It is fantastic that our dogged advocacy for licensed firearms owners has led to real change. I hope this will be a weight off many peoples’ shoulders who were stressed about the expiration of their licence.
This will create a safer regime where people aren’t forced to relocate firearms when their licences expire, and will mean law-abiding New Zealanders aren’t inconvenienced while trying to do the right thing.
The ACT Party is here to make a difference and bring about real change. We are proud to stand up for New Zealand’s law-abiding firearms community.
