In a narrow 215–214 vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” on May 22, 2025. Among its numerous provisions, the bill includes a significant change to firearm regulations: the deregulation of firearm suppressors, commonly known as silencers. This measure eliminates the longstanding $200 federal excise tax and removes suppressors from the registration requirements under the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934.
Proponents Advocate for Hearing Protection and Second Amendment Rights
Supporters of the suppressor deregulation argue that the devices, which reduce the noise of gunfire by approximately 20 to 35 decibels, are essential for hearing protection among hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts. Knox Williams, president of the American Suppressor Association, emphasized that suppressors do not render gunshots silent but instead lower the sound to safer levels, akin to the noise of a lawnmower.
Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), a gun store owner and vocal advocate for the measure, stated, “This is a massive 2A victory—one that takes important steps toward restoring our constitutional freedoms.” He and other proponents view the deregulation as a move to uphold Second Amendment rights and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for law-abiding gun owners.
Critics Raise Concerns Over Public Safety
Opponents of the provision express concern that deregulating suppressors could have detrimental effects on public safety. Rep. Gabe Amo (D-RI) argued that silencers could make mass shootings more deadly by making it harder for victims and law enforcement to locate the source of gunfire. Democrats attempted to remove the suppressor provision from the bill but were unsuccessful.
Law enforcement agencies and public safety advocates worry that easier access to suppressors could complicate active shooter responses and hinder investigations. The debate underscores the ongoing tension between gun rights and public safety considerations in U.S. firearm legislation.
Legislative Strategy and Next Steps
The suppressor deregulation was included in the broader “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a comprehensive legislative package championed by President Donald Trump. The bill encompasses sweeping tax cuts, increased defense spending, and stricter work requirements for social programs. By bundling the suppressor provision within this extensive bill, Republicans utilized the budget reconciliation process, allowing them to bypass a Senate filibuster and pass the legislation with a simple majority.
The bill now moves to the Senate, where it faces further scrutiny. While Republicans hold a slim majority, internal divisions and opposition from some senators could influence the final outcome. If the Senate passes the bill without altering the suppressor provision, it would mark a significant shift in federal firearm regulations.
Broader Implications
The potential deregulation of suppressors reflects a broader trend of legislative efforts aimed at expanding gun rights. Advocates view the move as a step toward reducing what they perceive as unnecessary restrictions on lawful gun ownership. Conversely, critics argue that such measures prioritize gun rights over public safety and could lead to increased risks in communities.
As the Senate deliberates on the bill, the nation watches closely, recognizing that the outcome will have lasting implications for firearm policy and the balance between individual rights and collective security.
