site.btaParliament Approves at First Reading Two Bills Amending Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives and Pyrotechnical Products Act

Parliament approved on Wednesday at first reading two bills amending the Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives and Pyrotechnic Products Act. One bill, submitted by the caretaker government of Andrey Gurov, was adopted by 132 votes in favour, with two abstentions. The second, tabled by the regular government of Rumen Radev, was approved by a vote of 117-5, with 26 abstentions.

The amendments submitted on April 30 by Gurov’s caretaker government provide for the removal of certain documentary requirements in cases where the relevant information can be obtained ex officio. They also eliminate the requirement for holders of permits to acquire, store, carry and use firearms and ammunition to submit documents related to a change of permanent address. The bill also introduces a ban on the use of pyrotechnic articles within urbanized areas during the hours designated for residents’ rest under ordinances adopted by the respective municipal councils.

The bill submitted on July 7 by the regular government of Rumen Radev likewise seeks to reduce the administrative burden on applicants by eliminating the requirement to submit certain documents. Under the proposed changes, applicants will only need to provide the number and date of issue of an occupancy permit for the relevant facilities, or a copy of another document replacing it when required under the Spatial Development Act, together with the issuing authority. They will also need to provide the number and date of issue of a certificate of conformity confirming the suitability of a mobile explosives production unit, where applicable.

The requirement to notify the Ministry of Economy, Investment and Industry of changes to a company’s commercial registration is also removed.