Expert: Dan Haynes - 10/7/2008

Question
I have recently moved from Pennsylvania to MA and have been told to look up the FID requirements.  Is this a requirement to actually own sporting and long bore guns (rifles, shotguns, etc..)?  and if so, since when does an American right require a certificate, that the local government can charge me a reoccurring fee, to obtained?  Does this mean if I can not afford the fee, the state has the ability to take away my Federally protected rights and therefore make it a "privilege"?  Is MA just a communist sect or have they forgotten to read the Constitution or am I just confused about the whole FID card application?  Any light to shine on this topic would be great.

Answer
Mack,

You picked a liberal known for anti gun politicians state to move to.

Here is the deal:

Residents must have an FID in order to purchase, possess, or transport a rifle or shotgun that is not a large-capacity gun; to purchase or possess ammunition or component parts of ammunition; and to purchase or possess defense sprays.

For more information go here:http://www.goal.org/misc/faq/overview.html

Best wishes,

Dan