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Gun retailers would be required to keep records of firearms inventory and sales for at least 20 years under government legislation introduced today.

The proposed measure – part of a wide-ranging firearms bill tabled in the House of Commons – is intended to assist police in investigating gun trafficking and other crimes.

READ MORE: 69% of Canadians support outright ban on guns in urban areas

The legislation would also require purchasers of rifles and shotguns to present a valid licence.

In addition, the bill would expand the scope of background checks on those who want to acquire a gun. Instead of just the five years immediately preceding a licence application, personal history questions would cover a person’s entire lifetime.

While crime rates in Canada have generally been declining for more than two decades, offences involving firearms have become more prevalent, especially since 2013, the government notes. “Gun-related homicides, domestic and gender-based violence involving guns, criminal gang activity and gun thefts are all up significantly.”

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WATCH: Rising gun violence trends call for immediate action: Ralph Goodale

2:46 Rising gun violence trends call for immediate action: Ralph Goodale Rising gun violence trends call for immediate action: Ralph Goodale

Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale has already earmarked more than $327 million over five years and $100 million a year thereafter, to address criminal gun and gang activities.

The government says the legislative proposals emphasize public safety and effective police work, while respecting law-abiding firearms owners.

However, the Liberals expect political pushback from the Conservatives, as the bill would repeal measures passed by the previous government.

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For instance, it would roll back some automatic authorizations to transport restricted and prohibited firearms, such as handguns and assault weapons. Under the bill, owners would need a permit to transport such guns, except when taking them to a shooting range or home from a store.

The bill also proposes restoring the authority of RCMP experts to classify firearms without political influence.