H.R. 4688: Choosing Our Own Lives Over Fast Firearms Act (119th Congress) Bill Summary

This bill, titled the "Choosing Our Own Lives Over Fast Firearms Act" (or "COOL OFF Act"), proposes to establish a mandatory waiting period before a person can receive a handgun. Below are the key components of the bill:

Mandatory Waiting Period

The bill mandates a 3-day waiting period for the transfer of handguns. This applies in two specific scenarios:

Transfers between non-licensees: Individuals who are not licensed to deal in firearms must wait at least 3 business days after they offer to take possession of a handgun before they can receive it from another non-licensed person.
Transfers from licensed dealers to non-licensees: Firearms licensees (dealers) must also wait at least 3 business days after contacting the background check system before transferring a handgun to a non-licensee.

Exceptions to the Waiting Period

There are specific exceptions to the waiting period requirements:

If the transfer is made under emergency circumstances, such as needing to prevent imminent death or bodily harm.
Transfers that are temporary and occur for specific lawful purposes, such as:

Loan transfers: Between close family members including spouses, domestic partners, and relatives.
Shooting activities: At a shooting range or while hunting, fishing, or trapping, where the transferor believes that the transferee will comply with all legal requirements.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The bill introduces penalties for violations of the new transfer regulations. Anyone who fails to comply with the waiting period requirements would be subject to legal penalties as outlined in Section 924 of title 18 of the U.S. Code.