Current Status of the Hearing Protection Act and SHORT Act
As significant pro-gun legislation faces challenges, gun owners are encouraged to make their voices heard.
Overview of the Proposed Legislation
Two pivotal bills aimed at reforming firearm regulations—The Hearing Protection Act (H.R. 404) and the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act (H.R. 2395)—have encountered hurdles in the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee.
The Hearing Protection Act
The HPA seeks to remove suppressors from the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA), which currently requires suppressors to be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and mandates a $200 tax stamp for ownership. While suppressors would remain classified under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA), this change would simplify acquisition via a single FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) inquiry.
The SHORT Act
Similarly, the SHORT Act aims to declassify short-barreled rifles (SBRs) from the NFA, thereby alleviating regulatory burdens on gun owners.
Committee Dynamics and Potential Outcomes
Under the leadership of Jason Smith (R-MO), the Ways and Means Committee is currently assessing both bills. The Republican majority should theoretically lend support to these measures; however, several scenarios may unfold during the committee’s deliberations.
Scenario Analysis
- Unmodified Passage: The most favorable outcome for gun rights activists could see both the HPA and SHORT Act pass committee without any alterations. This would represent a significant victory for Second Amendment advocates.
- Modified Passage: An alternative scenario could involve amendments to the bills, such as reducing the tax stamp fees while keeping suppressors and SBRs under NFA regulations. Though advantageous compared to the current $200 fee, this option may not satisfy the majority of gun owners.
- No Passage: The least favorable outcome would be failing to advance either bill. Despite Republican control, some members, such as Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), have previously shown reluctance towards supporting gun rights legislation, raising concerns among advocates.
Calls to Action from the Gun Community
Gun advocacy organizations, including Gun Owners of America (GOA), have mobilized constituents to engage with their representatives. This grassroots push emphasizes the importance of advancing the HPA and SHORT Act in their original form. Committee members are reportedly experiencing increased communication from constituents urging support.
The scheduled markup for these bills is approaching, with a draft markup required by Sunday night. This tight timeline underscores the urgency for gun owners to express their positions to committee members.
