Gov. Lamont signs legislation targeting commonly owned semi-automatic handguns while expanding state firearm restrictions and penalties.
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont (D) has signed a new gun control measure that bans the sale and importation of certain semi-automatic pistols the state claims can be readily converted into fully automatic firearms through the use of illegal conversion devices commonly known as “Glock switches.”
The law, which takes effect on October 1, 2026, targets handguns equipped with a cruciform trigger bar design that lawmakers argue makes them susceptible to modification with commonly available tools. Violations will be treated as felonies carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.
Supporters of the legislation claim the measure closes a loophole in Connecticut law and will help prevent criminals from converting pistols into machine guns.
The National Association for Gun Rights argues the law punishes law-abiding firearm owners for the actions of criminals who are already violating existing laws against machine guns and conversion devices. They also warn that the legislation could serve as a stepping stone toward broader restrictions on commonly owned handguns.
The measure builds upon Connecticut’s previous ban on so-called “rapid-fire” accessories, which already prohibited devices such as bump stocks and auto sears. The new law specifically adds pistol conversion devices to the list of prohibited accessories and broadens the state’s firearm regulations.
In addition to the pistol ban, the legislation expands Connecticut’s “ghost gun” restrictions by clarifying that unfinished frames and lower receivers fall under existing regulations governing homemade firearms.
The law also creates a process allowing firearm owners to voluntarily surrender guns or ammunition to law enforcement for temporary storage and requires partial refunds of handgun permit fees when local authorities fail to process applications within statutory deadlines.
The legislation advanced through the Democrat-controlled General Assembly despite strong opposition from Second Amendment supporters, who argued during committee hearings and floor debates that the proposal represented another example of government overreach and would do little to deter violent criminals.
Connecticut’s new restrictions mirror similar efforts in states such as California and are expected to face close scrutiny from gun owners and gun rights supporters as legal challenges to comparable laws continue to move through the courts.
With Lamont’s signature now in place, Connecticut has further expanded what is already considered one of the nation’s most restrictive firearm regulatory frameworks, setting the stage for another major battle over the scope of the Second Amendment.
Read more at Stamford Advocate.
