Responsible Firearm Ownership, Safety, and Innovation Act (RFOSIA)

Section 1. Short Title

This Act may be cited as the “Responsible Firearm Ownership, Safety, and Innovation Act” or RFOSIA.

Respecting the Second Amendment:
1.1. The right to bear arms is a constitutional guarantee, but it must be exercised responsibly with public safety in mind.
1.2. Advances in technology provide opportunities to improve firearm safety without infringing on ownership rights.
Technological Innovations:
1.1. Smart gun and smart ammunition technology, capable of restricting firearm functionality in sensitive areas, has the potential to enhance safety while maintaining accessibility for lawful owners.
1.2. Encouraging innovation in firearm safety technology aligns with the nation’s goals to reduce firearm misuse.
Accountability and Safety:
1.1. Negligence in firearm storage and use contributes significantly to firearm-related accidents and crimes.
1.2. Comprehensive training and secure storage are critical to promoting responsible ownership and preventing unauthorized access.

To uphold the Second Amendment while implementing robust safety, accountability, and storage measures.
To incentivize technological innovation in firearms and ammunition that enhances safety in sensitive areas.
To reduce unauthorized access, accidents, and misuse of firearms through training, storage requirements, and owner accountability.

(Sections 3-6 remain unchanged from the original bill for firearm storage, training, and accountability.)

Grant Program Creation:
1.1. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) shall establish a grant program to incentivize the development and adoption of smart firearm technology.
1.2. Grants shall be awarded to firearm manufacturers, technology developers, and researchers working on solutions to enhance firearm safety.
Eligible Projects:
1.1. Smart guns or firearm systems that:
- Use biometric authentication to enable or disable firearm functionality based on the registered owner’s identity.
- Restrict firearm operation within designated areas, such as schools, airports, and government buildings, using geofencing or similar technology.
1.2. Smart bullets or ammunition that:
- Use sensors to determine when it is safe to fire, reducing accidental discharges.
- Become inert in restricted areas to prevent unauthorized use.
Application Process:
1.1. Applicants must submit proposals to the ATF, including detailed project descriptions, technical specifications, and implementation timelines.
1.2. The ATF shall review applications in consultation with industry experts and allocate grants based on feasibility, innovation, and potential safety impact.
Funding and Awards:
1.1. The grant program shall be funded with an initial allocation of $500 million, subject to additional appropriations based on demand.
1.2. Individual grants may range from $1 million to $20 million, depending on project scope and scale.

Federal and Private Partnerships:
1.1. The Department of Defense (DoD), ATF, and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shall collaborate with firearm manufacturers and technology companies to develop cutting-edge firearm safety solutions.
1.2. Federal agencies may provide access to government laboratories, research facilities, and data to assist with development efforts.
Annual Innovation Report:
1.1. The ATF shall issue an annual report to Congress summarizing grant program outcomes, technological advancements, and adoption rates of smart firearm systems.

(Sections 6-9 remain unchanged, including provisions for liability, penalties for negligence, and oversight.)

Innovation Tax Credits:
1.1. Companies investing in firearm safety technology may qualify for tax credits of up to 25% of their research and development costs.
Federal and State Matching Funds:
1.1. States adopting smart firearm policies and technologies shall be eligible for matching federal funds to assist with implementation and public education campaigns.

Effective Date:
1.1. This Act shall take effect 12 months after its enactment, with grant applications open within six months.
Severability:
1.1. If any provision of this Act is found invalid, the remainder shall remain in effect.