Governor Ige signs bill putting gun owners in FBI database

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Governor David Ige signed the bill SB 2954 on Thursday that made Hawaii the first state to enter gun owners into an FBI database system for greater criminal record monitoring.

This system, also known as the "Rap Back" system, allows law enforcement agencies to be automatically notified when a Hawaii-based gun owner is arrested anywhere in the country. The governor's office said this system will allow county police departments to better determine whether a firearm owner who has run into trouble may continue to legally possess firearms.

"This is about our community's safety and responsible gun ownership. this system will better enable our law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of all Hawaii residents and visitors to our islands," Ige said.

Ige also signed two other bills relating to firearms.

The first bill, HB 625, disqualifies anyone charged with harassment by stalking and sexual assault from owning, possessing or controlling any firearm or ammunition.

The second bill, HB 2632, gives police authority to seize firearms and ammunition if the owner has been disqualified due to mental problems.