The Coalition government has been reported as “on-course” to push through its firearm “reforms” following agreement Labour and NZ First. NZ First had earlier expressed reservations.
The bill will include establishing an independent agency to handle firearms licensing and administration.
NZ First had said previously it had “issues” with the bill.
But reports say the parties have now found common ground on most issues that had delayed the progress of the bill.
The Arms Legislation Bill is number 4 on this week’s order of business for Parliament.
Phil Cregeen of the Sporting Shooters Association of NZ (SSANZ) questioned whether NZ First had fallen short. He said firearm owners should e mail NZ First MPs telling them views on Police Minister Stuart Nash’ proposed law changes.
“It’s your freedom, sport and way of life that is at stake here,” he said.” Having allowed the Bill to drift along to this late stage you would think that the sensible approach would be to await the outcome of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch attack, due by 31 July. It is easier to change a Bill before it becomes law, rather than try to undo mistakes once it is passed.