State Senator Ron Latz (DFL–St. Louis Park) is advocating for a new bill that would require all law enforcement agencies in Minnesota to utilize a federal database for tracing firearms involved in violent crimes. In an interview with 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS, Latz revealed that approximately 40% of law enforcement agencies in the state currently do not employ the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) e-trace system.
Among the agencies that do use the e-trace system, only 13% share their findings with other departments, limiting the effectiveness of this vital tool in solving crimes. Latz emphasized that his proposed legislation would mandate that all agencies enter firearm data into the e-trace system whenever they encounter firearms linked to criminal activity.
“This requirement will streamline investigations and facilitate the tracing of firearms, making it easier to uncover their history and ownership,” Latz stated.
Former Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek supports this initiative, noting that his agency has successfully used the federal tracking database. “This tool works effectively nationwide,” Stanek said. “One firearm can be linked to multiple individuals, especially within gang-related contexts.”
Latz plans to introduce the bill when lawmakers reconvene early next year, aiming to enhance collaboration among law enforcement agencies and improve crime-solving capabilities across Minnesota.
As discussions around gun violence and tracking systems continue, stakeholders are increasingly recognizing the need for standardized practices to address these pressing issues effectively.