Attack on Body Armor Possession!

Published on April 22, 2020
Duration: 6:50

This video provides a comprehensive overview of federal and state laws regarding body armor possession and purchase. It details federal prohibition for convicted felons under 18 USC § 931, with professional exemptions and sentence enhancement provisions. State laws are generally similar, with California Penal Code § 1202.2 highlighting sentence enhancements. The video also discusses proposed legislation like the Responsible Body Armor Possession Act, which aims to restrict 'enhanced body armor' (Type III or above) for civilians while exempting law enforcement.

Quick Summary

Federal law (18 USC § 931) prohibits convicted felons from possessing body armor, with professional exemptions. Sentence enhancements can apply if body armor is worn during a crime. Proposed legislation like the Responsible Body Armor Possession Act aims to restrict 'enhanced body armor' (NIJ Type III+) for civilians, though law enforcement is typically exempt.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Body Armor Laws
  2. 00:16Federal Body Armor Laws
  3. 01:36State Body Armor Laws
  4. 02:00California Body Armor Laws
  5. 02:33Body Armor Purchase Restrictions
  6. 02:51Connecticut Sales Exception
  7. 03:11Responsible Body Armor Possession Act
  8. 04:22Definition of Enhanced Body Armor
  9. 05:01Example of Enhanced Body Armor
  10. 05:25Second Amendment and Body Armor
  11. 06:03Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the federal law regarding body armor possession?

Federal law, specifically 18 USC § 931, prohibits convicted felons from possessing body armor. There's an exemption for individuals who are required to wear it for their profession. Violators can face up to three years imprisonment.

Can body armor possession lead to sentence enhancements?

Yes, both federal and many state laws allow for sentence enhancements if a crime is committed while wearing or possessing body armor. This means additional prison time can be added to the sentence for the underlying crime.

What is the 'Responsible Body Armor Possession Act'?

This proposed federal bill aims to make it unlawful for civilians to purchase, own, or possess what it defines as 'enhanced body armor,' which includes items meeting or exceeding NIJ Type III ballistic resistance standards. Law enforcement is typically exempt.

Are there any states with unique body armor purchase laws?

While most states allow online purchases, Connecticut is noted as an exception where body armor sales are reportedly restricted to face-to-face transactions only. This may limit online purchasing options for residents.

Does the Second Amendment protect body armor?

The speaker in the video expresses the belief that body armor is protected under the Second Amendment as 'arms.' This perspective suggests that restrictions on body armor could be seen as an infringement on the right to bear arms.

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