'House Passes Red Flag Law​,' by Raghib Allie-Brennan

"House Passes "Red Flag" Law,"

by State Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan

Connecticut enacted our country’s first "Red Flag" law in 1999 following a devastating mass shooting at the Connecticut Lottery. This law, also known as a Risk Warrant or a Risk Protection Order, established a legal procedure for the temporary removal of firearms from a person who may pose a danger to themselves or others.

Today, with my support, the Connecticut House of Representatives voted on the first substantial update to its "Red Flag" law since its adoption over 20 years ago. The bill passed 93-55.

Major changes to the law include allowing family members and medical providers to initiate an investigation into a person they are worried may be a danger to themselves or others. Currently, two police officers or a prosecutor are required in order to seek a warrant to seize firearms. The bill would add a provision allowing the risk warrants to prevent someone from purchasing weapons. Currently, the law only considers firearms that are already in a person’s possession.

The proposal also changes the duration of the risk warrants, making them persistent until the affected person applies to have the order vacated by a court. Under current law, the order lasts for one year with no ability to extend it or terminate it early. A judge still has to deem the person an imminent risk; the gun owner is still guaranteed a hearing within 14 days. They can also go back to the judge in 180 days.

I want to thank Bethel resident, Jenn Lawlor and her family for their powerful testimony during the public hearing process. We have a duty to protect our residents from gun violence. The temporary removal of firearms from a person who may pose a threat to themselves or others plays a critical role in preventing unnecessary gun deaths. With the passage of HB 6355, the House has moved to bolster current statute to protect and save lives and avoid tragedies before they happen.

Raghib Allie-Brennan represents the 2nd District in the State House of Representatives, covering parts of Bethel, Danbury, Redding and Newtown.