What explains this push, and why now? Why didn’t Republicans pull the trigger when they controlled all branches of government during the 114th Congress?
Passing legislation under a Democratic-controlled Congress, even with slim majorities, is unlikely. And don’t count on President Biden, a gun rights foe, to sign any bill into law.
While efforts may not succeed today, the future of suppressor deregulation isn’t out of sight yet.
The Industry Speaks
The push for suppressor deregulation isn’t new. It’s always been a top priority for the firearms industry and advocacy organizations.
SilencerCo, a suppressor manufacturer, sees an opportunity to educate lawmakers during the 116th Congress.
“The need for deregulated suppressors is ever-present, even now amidst [a] Democratic administration,” Shauna Young, public relations specialist at SilencerCo, told Town Hall over email.
Young stressed the “extreme importance” of proposed legislation to educate Americans about hearing protection for hunters and shooters—arguing it should be prioritized, despite today’s political climate.
“While the SHUSH and Hearing Protection Acts are unlikely to pass in federal legislation under current circumstances, they still raise awareness and conversation around why suppressors need to be deregulated,” she added.