940 CMR 16.00:
AG Handgun Sales Regulations

940 CMR 16.00 is a set of consumer-protection regulations issued by the Attorney General under MGL Chapter 93A.^[1] The regulations impose design and safety requirements on handguns offered by covered sellers in Massachusetts. They operate separately from the EOPSS Approved Firearms Roster.

Separate Compliance Layers

A Massachusetts dealer must consider federal law, the EOPSS roster framework under 501 CMR 7.00,^[2] and the Attorney General's requirements under 940 CMR 16.00. Appearance on the EOPSS roster does not itself establish compliance with 940 CMR 16.00.

Core Safety Requirements

• Testing: Handguns are subject to the testing and performance requirements stated in the regulation.
• Childproofing: Section 16.05(2) describes alternative design methods. A trigger resistance of at least 10 pounds is one listed method, not a universal trigger-pull requirement.
• Semiautomatic pistols: Section 16.05(3) requires either a load indicator or a magazine safety disconnect. It does not require both.

Granata Appeal

The regulations and roster are challenged in Granata v. Campbell, First Circuit No. 25-1918. The United States Department of Justice filed an amicus brief on January 28, 2026 supporting the challengers.^[3] As of August 25, 2026, no published First Circuit opinion deciding the appeal was identified. The existing rules remain relevant unless a court order or later legal change alters them.