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SHUSH Act

2/28/2025, 5:23 AM

Summary of Bill HR 850

Bill 119 hr 850, also known as the "Hearing Protection Act," aims to change the way silencers are regulated in the United States. Currently, silencers are classified as firearms under the National Firearms Act, which means they are subject to strict regulations and requirements, including a background check, fingerprinting, and a $200 tax stamp.

This bill seeks to reclassify silencers as firearms accessories, rather than firearms themselves. This would mean that individuals looking to purchase a silencer would no longer have to go through the lengthy and expensive process currently required. Instead, they would be able to purchase a silencer in the same way they would purchase other firearms accessories, such as scopes or grips.

Supporters of the bill argue that this change would make it easier for gun owners to protect their hearing while shooting, as silencers reduce the noise of gunfire. They also argue that the current regulations on silencers are unnecessary and burdensome. Opponents of the bill, however, argue that reclassifying silencers as accessories could make it easier for individuals to obtain and use them illegally. They also argue that silencers make it harder for law enforcement to identify and locate active shooters. Overall, the passage of Bill 119 hr 850 would have significant implications for the regulation of silencers in the United States. It remains to be seen whether the bill will gain enough support to become law.

Congressional Summary of HR 850

Silencers Help Us Save Hearing Act or the SHUSH Act

This bill removes silencers from regulation under certain federal statutes governing the sale, transfer, and possession of firearms.

Specifically, it removes silencers from the list of firearms subject to regulation (i.e., registration and licensing requirements) under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Additionally, it excludes a muffler or silencer from the list of firearms subject to regulation (e.g., background check requirements) under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA).

Finally, the bill does the following:

  • preempts state or local laws that tax or regulate firearm silencers,
  • specifies that a person who lawfully acquires or possesses a silencer under provisions of the GCA meets the registration and licensing requirements of the NFA,
  • eliminates mandatory minimum prison terms for a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense in which a defendant uses or carries a firearm equipped with a silencer or muffler, and
  • permits active and retired law enforcement officers to carry a concealed silencer.

Current Status of Bill HR 850

Bill HR 850 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 31, 2025. Bill HR 850 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 31, 2025.  Bill HR 850's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of January 31, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 850

Total Number of Sponsors
4
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
4
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
21
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
21
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 850

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 850

To provide that silencers be treated the same as firearms accessories.
To provide that silencers be treated the same as firearms accessories.

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