The Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee heard HB 1235 concerning prohibited causes of action concerning firearms sponsored by Sen. Freeman. The author, Rep. Jeter, explained that the bill provides only the State of Indiana may bring or maintain an action by or on behalf of a political subdivision against a firearm or ammunition manufacturer, trade association, seller, or dealer concerning firearm matters. The bill prohibits a political subdivision from otherwise independently bringing or maintaining such an action.
The bill was amended to allow a political subdivision to bring an action to enforce a generally applicable zoning or business ordinance that applies to a firearm or ammunition manufacturer, seller, or dealer to the same degree as other similar businesses.
The Indiana Attorney General’s Office, a representative of the sponsors of the bill, the 2A Project, Indiana State Rifle and Pistol Association, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and the NRA testified in support of the bill. Various interested parties in the Gary, Indiana, gun lawsuit testified in opposition, including Rep. Hatcher and Eddie Melton, the Mayor of Gary, Indiana. The Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council testified but remained neutral. The amended bill passed 5-3.
Read the bill at: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/house/1235