Lower house passes amdnement toughening conditions for firearms possession

The Chamber of Deputies has passed a government bill expected to toughen criteria for the possession of firearms in the Czech Republic as of January 1, 2009. The aim is to lower the risk of legally-held weapons being used in crimes. The bill, which passed without any major modifications, also toughens criteria for those seeking a gun licence, said to disqualify individuals with histories of heavy alcohol or drug abuse. Also toughened: punishment for crimes involving firearms as well as stricter controls on defunct weapons. In past cases, firearms that had been written off were later found to still be functional and in illegal use; before being passed into law the bill will still have to be signed by the president.