Posted: | April 14, 2023 11:29 AM |
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From: | Representative Ryan E. Mackenzie |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | PA Instant Check System to Verify Immigration Status |
In the near future, I will be introducing legislation that will require the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to notify the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) and the Pennsylvania Attorney General of all attempts to purchase firearms by persons who are illegally or unlawfully in the United States. Currently, PSP administers and manages the Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS), which is used by licensed firearm dealers to verify if an individual can lawfully purchase or transfer a firearm in this Commonwealth. While unauthorized individuals are prohibited under both state and federal law from owning or possessing a firearm, nothing in statute currently requires PSP to investigate or otherwise notify ICE or any other law enforcement agency of any unlawful attempt by an unauthorized individual to procure a firearm. Under my legislation, when a PICS check indicates that a prospective purchaser or transferee is an unauthorized individual, PSP will be required to transmit a notice to ICE and the Pennsylvania Attorney General that outlines the potential violation of state and federal law. Please join me in cosponsoring this important piece of legislation to better protect and serve our constituents. |
Introduced as HB1066