HB05291 (2026): Public Act 26-45 DESPP Public Safety Changes

What the Bill Does

Connecticut enacted HB 5291 as Public Act 26-45. The act covers multiple public safety topics including fire service, chemical testing, police officer standards, and firearms. The firearm-relevant provision extends the period before destruction of seized firearms, deadly weapons, and ammunition from one year to two years after the risk-protection-order hearing, and requires written notice at least 90 days before destruction. Those amendments take effect October 1, 2026.^[1][8]

Current Status

HB05291 is no longer pending. The Connecticut General Assembly lists the measure as Public Act 26-45. The enacted act states that the firearm-retention amendments are effective October 1, 2026, so this article should remain marked as enacted until that date is rechecked.^[1][8]

What to Watch

Watch the October 1, 2026 effective date and any DESPP or court guidance on implementation. Owners whose firearms, deadly weapons, or ammunition are seized under a risk protection order should note that the new two-year retention and 90-day written notice rules are enacted, but not yet effective, until October 1, 2026.