Firearms Legislation For Safer Communities

Prohibition on assault-style firearms

As of May 1, 2020 the Government of Canada has prohibited over 1,500 models of assault-style firearms and certain components of some newly prohibited firearms (the upper receivers of M16, AR-10, AR-15, and M4 patterns of firearms). New maximum thresholds for muzzle energy (greater than 10,000 Joules) and bore diameter (20 mm bore or greater) are also in place. Any firearm that exceeds them is now prohibited. A Criminal Code amnesty period is currently in effect to April 30, 2022. The amnesty is designed to protect individuals or businesses who, at the time the prohibition came into force, were in lawful possession of a newly prohibited firearm from criminal liability while they take steps to comply with the law.   

Former Bill C-71, An Act to Amend certain Acts and Regulations in relation to firearms (S.C. 2019, c.9)

This new legislation provides practical, targeted and measured steps to help keep Canadians safe

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