Rapid Fire Devices That Turn Firearms Into Automatic Weapons Are Now Illegal in Oregon

Senate Bill 243 became effective yesterday (Friday), banning the use of rapid-fire devices, changing semi-automatic firearms into automatic weapons.

The implementation of the new law followed intense debates for and against it by Democratic and Republican lawmakers. While Democrats fought for its introduction, Republicans claimed it would infringe Second Amendment rights and punish law-abiding gun owners.

The New Law Also Bans the Use of Stocks and Switches

The bill includes bump stocks that enable semi-automatic rifles to fire bullets rapidly, and switches, generally used on Glock pistols, which enable them to deliver a 17-round magazine in under half a second.

Oregon cities, counties, and other governing bodies now have the legal right to prevent people carrying weapons from entering public buildings. This includes people carrying concealed weapons. The weapon prohibition must be clearly signposted on the buildings involved.

This provision was introduced by the Democrats in an attempt to curtail mass shootings in places such as schools and churches.

Senate Bill 243 is not unique to Oregon, as 17 other states have criminalized the use of bump stocks or switches.

It will be a felony in Oregon to manufacture, transport, or transfer rapid-fire devices.

Another New Gun Restriction Could Become Effective Next Year

Measure 114, which limits magazines to 10 or fewer rounds, is only expected to become law early next year. Oral arguments will be heard by the Oregon Supreme Court in November 2025, when it reviews a state appellate court ruling that the gun control measure is constitutional under Oregon law.

If sanctioned by the Supreme Court, Measure 114 restricts gun magazine capacity to no more than 10 rounds, requires residents to obtain a permit to purchase a firearm, and requires licensed gun shop owners to implement criminal background checks before transferring guns to new owners.

The Oregon Supreme Court is expected to hear oral arguments in November in its review of a state appellate court ruling that found the gun control measure constitutional under state law.