The Federal Assault Weapons Licensing Act would create a new licensing system for any American seeking to purchase a new assault-style, semiautomatic weapon — anybody who already owns such a firearm at the time of enactment would be grandfathered in.

The licensing process would require a person complete a mandatory safety course, pass an FBI background check, submit fingerprints, and provide proof of identity. The license would need to be renewed every five years if an individual wants to purchase or obtain additional assault weapons.

If a person fails to pass a background check at the time of purchase, disqualifying information becomes available, or DOJ finds an individual poses a threat to themselves or others, their license could be withdrawn. The bill would also increase the availability of information on criminals that the FBI draws from when conducting a background check.

The bill also contains protections for the privacy and constitutional rights of license holders, Jacobs’ office said.

People who already own an assault-style weapon, along with active-duty military and law enforcement officers would not need a license. The legislation would also allow an unlicensed person to use a such a firearm at a shooting range, or for the purposes of hunting, if a license holder supervises.

It would also allow non-license holders to use such a weapon if it is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious harm to another person.