Certain firearms and stun devices would qualify for Pennsylvania weapons-ban exceptions

Certain firearms would fall outside Pennsylvania’s definition of prohibited offensive weapons. The exception covers machine guns, sawed-off shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches, and firearms specially made or adapted for concealment or silent firing. Possession would have to comply with Pennsylvania’s firearms laws and applicable federal law, including the National Firearms Act where required. The provision would take effect 60 days after enactment.

Electric stun devices would fall outside the prohibited-weapons definition when possessed in compliance with Pennsylvania’s separate stun-device law. The provision covers stun guns, stun batons, tasers, and other electric weapons. Use to defend a person or property would have to meet Pennsylvania’s rules for reasonable force. This self-defense permission would not require written instructions about the device’s use and possible harm. The provisions would take effect 60 days after enactment.