The temporary handgun import ban takes effect today (Fri). On August 5th, the Liberal government announced restrictions that would be in place until a national freeze on importing hand guns is passed by parliament.

This temporary ban means that individuals and businesses will no longer be able to import handguns into Canada, subject to narrow exceptions that mirror those in Bill C-21. Public safety minister Marco Mendicino says the move comes through a regulatory measure that does not need parliamentary approval.

The federal government says it is part of their plan to tackle gun crime which included a ban on assault-style weapons like AR-15s. The goverment plans to introduce a buyback program for assault style weapons.