Ghost gun law takes effect Wednesday in Maryland

MARYLAND – Starting tomorrow, June 1st, Title 5 of the Public Safety Article requires a personal identification number for all unserialized firearms and unfinished frames and receivers, commonly referred to as 80% lowers (ghost guns) or build kits.

A person who currently possesses non-serialized firearms, including unfinished frames or receivers, will be required to have the non-serialized firearm marked with a personal identification number. The deadline for compliance with this marking requirement is March 1, 2023, and can be obtained by any Federal Firearms Licensee authorized to provide marking services in compliance with all federal laws and regulations.

After June 1, 2022, all firearms must be imprinted with a serial number or personal identification number before a person can sell, offer to sell, or transfer a firearm. Individuals who receive non-serialized firearms, including unfinished frames or receivers, through inheritance, after June 1st, will be required to comply with the requirement by the 30th day after inheriting the firearm. Firearms being marked in this manner are required to be registered with the Maryland State Police via the Licensing Portal and will be subject to a full background investigation.

After June 1, 2022, it is illegal to purchase an unfinished frame or received until federal law requires the serialization of unfinished frames or receivers by a federally licensed manufacturer or importer in compliance with all federal laws and regulations. Violators are subject to a penalty of up to two years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000 in fines.