Massachusetts has rolled out new guidance on its recently enacted gun legislation, Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024. As with many legal changes in the state, these updates come with their fair share of complexity and confusion. The new law, initially introduced as H.4885, has sparked debate and questions from gun owners, law enforcement, and instructors alike. Let’s dive into what’s new, what’s changing, and what it means for residents and visitors.
What’s Chapter 135 All About?

Chapter 135 aims to modernize firearm laws in Massachusetts, but its implementation has raised eyebrows for its lack of clarity and sweeping changes. While the law officially took effect on October 2, 2024, many of its provisions are still in the works, leaving gun owners in a state of uncertainty. The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPS) has promised to provide periodic updates, but some of the most pressing questions remain unanswered.
The New Basic Firearm Safety Course

One significant change involves the Basic Firearm Safety (BFS) course. While the new curriculum requirements are being developed, the current BFS certificates will remain valid until April 2026. This gives new gun owners some breathing room to obtain licenses under the existing system. However, anyone applying for a firearm license after August 1, 2024, will need to complete the new course for license renewals.
No Grandfathering for Renewals

For those hoping to be grandfathered into the system, the new law offers little comfort. If you obtained an FID or LTC after August 1, 2024, but before October 2, you’ll need to meet the updated requirements when renewing your license. This means taking the revised BFS course and fulfilling any new conditions, which has left many residents feeling frustrated and blindsided.
Firearm Registration: A New System on the Horizon

One of the more contentious aspects of the law is the introduction of a new firearm registration system, slated to go live in 2026. Until then, gun owners can continue registering their firearms through the state’s current transaction portal. For those who have already registered their firearms, their data will reportedly transfer automatically to the new system. However, the lack of details about this transition has raised concerns about privacy and potential errors in data migration.
Changes for Business Owners and Non-Residents

Non-resident gun owners and business owners are facing stricter rules under the new law. Non-residents can no longer apply for or renew licenses to carry in towns where they own businesses, a significant shift that has sparked confusion and criticism. Additionally, the law introduces stricter conditions for non-resident hunters, requiring that their rifles and shotguns not be large capacity or semi-automatic.
Ammunition Sales Under Scrutiny

Another notable change involves ammunition sales. While electronic record-keeping for ammo sales isn’t mandatory yet, retailers are required to maintain written records that comply with the law. This provision has left many gun store owners scrambling to figure out how to comply without disrupting their operations. Large chains like Bass Pro Shops have reportedly started implementing these changes preemptively, but smaller shops may struggle to adapt.
Youth Hunting Rules Tighten

The law also includes new provisions for young hunters. Minors under 18 can only hunt under the direct supervision of a licensed adult with the consent of a parent or guardian. While this move aligns with safety priorities, it has raised concerns among families who regularly introduce their children to hunting traditions.
New Licensing Categories

The law outlines several licensing categories, including dealer licenses, gunsmith licenses, and self-defense spray permits. While some categories remain unchanged, others, like the non-resident licenses, are being phased out or significantly restricted. These changes further complicate the landscape for gun owners trying to navigate the legal system.
A Cloud of Confusion

The rollout of Chapter 135 has left many gun owners and law enforcement officials grappling with unanswered questions. Despite the detailed guidance provided, the sheer volume of new rules and the vague language in some sections have only added to the confusion. Critics argue that Massachusetts could have done a better job of streamlining the law’s implementation and providing clear, actionable instructions.
Implications for Gun Rights

For many, Chapter 135 is seen as another step in Massachusetts’ ongoing push for stricter gun control. While proponents argue that the law enhances public safety, critics claim it places unnecessary burdens on responsible gun owners. The lack of clarity and the piecemeal rollout of the law only amplify these frustrations.
What Comes Next?

As the state works to finalize the new systems and policies, gun owners are left waiting for more updates. Advocacy groups are urging Massachusetts residents to stay informed and voice their concerns to local representatives. With key provisions not taking effect until 2026, there’s still time for adjustments – but whether the state will listen to feedback remains to be seen.
Not a Smooth Rollout

Massachusetts’ new gun law highlights the complexities of balancing public safety with individual rights. While Chapter 135 aims to modernize firearm regulations, its rollout has been anything but smooth. For gun owners, staying informed and patient is essential as the state continues to issue guidance and refine the law’s provisions. Whether this new legislation will achieve its intended goals or simply add more red tape remains a topic of heated debate.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.