MGL Chapter 140, Section 130:
Sales to Minors

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 130^[1] prohibited the sale or furnishing of firearms and ammunition to aliens and minors, with age thresholds varying by weapon type. This section was repealed by Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024^[2], Section 47, effective October 2, 2024.

Pre-Repeal Prohibitions

• Rifles, shotguns, and ammunition to aliens aged 18 or older without a permit card under Section 131H: prohibited
• Rifles, shotguns, machine guns, and ammunition to any alien or person under 18: prohibited
• Firearms (handguns), large capacity rifles or shotguns, and ammunition to persons under 21: prohibited

Pre-Repeal Penalties

• Mandatory revocation of dealer license
• 10-year ban on reapplying for a dealer license
• Fine of $1,000 to $10,000
• Imprisonment up to 10 years in state prison or 2.5 years in house of correction, or both fine and imprisonment

Surviving Exception

Section 130½ (which survives the repeal) provides that it is lawful to furnish a weapon to a minor for hunting, recreation, instruction, and participation in shooting sports while under the supervision of a holder of a valid FID card or LTC appropriate for the weapon in use, provided the parent or guardian of the minor has granted consent.

Where the Substance Went

The prohibitions were not eliminated but reorganized into Section 121F (consolidated licensing, prohibited persons, age requirements), amended Section 123 (dealer conditions), and the broader licensing framework. Under Chapter 135, a person must be 21 for an LTC and 18 for an FID. Chapter 135 also added that a person must be 21 to own semiautomatic rifles or shotguns.

Referendum Status

The repeal is subject to the November 2026 referendum. If voters repeal Chapter 135, Section 130 would be restored in full with all its penalties and prohibitions.