Full Breakdown
Maryland Advances Legislation to Ban Machine Gun Convertible Pistols
4/9/2026, 4:05:18 AM
Legislative Overview and Key Provisions
On April 8, 2026, the Maryland House of Delegates passed Senate Bill 334, which bans the manufacture, sale, and transfer of “machine gun convertible pistols” starting January 1, 2027. This legislation targets semiautomatic handguns equipped with a cruciform trigger bar, a mechanism primarily found in Glock pistols, that can be converted into fully automatic weapons using a device known as a Glock switch. The bill received bipartisan support, passing the House with a vote of 92-39 after earlier Senate approval of 28-16.
The law exempts law enforcement officers and licensed dealers, allowing them to handle these firearms for servicing or transfer to out-of-state buyers. Individuals may transfer ownership only to immediate family members. Violations of the new law could result in a misdemeanor charge, carrying penalties of up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Background and Context
The push for this legislation follows a rise in incidents involving modified firearms, including a mass shooting at Morgan State University in October 2023, where a Glock switch was used. Law enforcement agencies, including the Baltimore Police Department, have expressed support for the bill, citing concerns over the dangers posed by machine gun convertible pistols in criminal activities.
Economic Impact and Concerns
The ban could significantly impact local gun retailers. Tim Hafer, owner of Hafer’s Guns in Hagerstown, estimated that the legislation could reduce his Maryland sales by 30% to 40%. He criticized the bill, stating it is more about control than crime prevention. Conversely, gun safety advocates argue that the legislation is necessary to prevent the proliferation of dangerous firearms.
Criticism and Opposition
Opposition to the bill has been voiced by gun rights groups, including the National Rifle Association (NRA), which argues that the legislation unfairly targets law-abiding citizens while failing to address illegal modifications. House Republican Leader Jason Buckel contended that the bill infringes on the rights of lawful gun owners and imposes unnecessary restrictions on manufacturers. Critics also raised concerns about the broad language of the bill, which could potentially encompass commonly owned semiautomatic handguns.
Official Statements and Responses
Del. Nicole Williams, the bill's sponsor, emphasized that current Glock owners would not be required to surrender their firearms but would be prohibited from purchasing or transferring them within Maryland. She stated, “No one is taking your gun away from you. After this, if Glock modifies its design, you can go purchase that newly designed gun.” Gun safety advocates, including Monisha Henley from Everytown for Gun Safety, praised the bill for focusing on preventing the sale of weapons that can be easily converted into automatic firearms.
What's Next
The bill now awaits action from Governor Wes Moore, who has not publicly stated his position on the legislation. If signed into law, the Maryland State Police will be responsible for developing regulations and publishing a list of prohibited pistols ahead of the law's effective date. Gun owners in Maryland are advised to monitor the rulemaking process closely, as the definition of “machine gun convertible pistol” will be shaped by upcoming regulations.
