The Government of Saskatchewan introduced the Saskatchewan Firearms Act today which it says will protect the rights of lawful firearms owners.

Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Christine Tell says the Act will address concerns of responsible firearms owners while enhancing public safety in the province.

The legislation is intended to counter recent changes by the federal government that impact lawful firearms owners, so it requires a business or individuals who are involved in seizing firearms, to have to be licensed according to provincial requirements. The government will also require compensation for any firearms seized and require forensic and ballistic testing of seized firearms.

The government has budgeted approximately $3.2 million this fiscal year to begin development of a Saskatchewan Firearms Ballistics Lab to support police services and provide timely access to Saskatchewan-based ballistics and firearms expertise; establish a Firearms Compensation Committee to determine the fair market value of any firearms, ammunition and related accessories being expropriated by the federal government; enhancing training and education regarding safe storage and firearms licensing; and, launch a made-in-Saskatchewan marketing campaign to promote firearm safety and best practices.

Additional firearms officers are also being employed who will investigate incidents associated with mental health, domestic violence and illegal activities involving firearms.