3D Printed Gun Safety Act of 2025
Summary
The 3D Printed Gun Safety Act of 2025 aims to prohibit the distribution of digital instructions (CAD files or other code) over the internet that can be used to program 3D printers to produce firearms or complete firearms from unfinished frames or receivers. The bill amends chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, to include this prohibition. It cites findings related to the increasing availability of 3D-printed firearms, their potential use in crimes, and the difficulty in tracing them due to the lack of serial numbers.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would make it illegal to share digital plans for 3D-printed guns online. This could reduce the availability of untraceable firearms. It may also impact individuals' ability to create their own firearms using 3D printing technology.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced availability of untraceable firearms, potentially decreasing gun violence.
- Aids law enforcement in tracing firearms used in crimes.
- May prevent individuals prohibited from owning firearms from acquiring them through 3D printing.
- Could enhance public safety in areas vulnerable to gun violence, such as schools and public gatherings.
- Potentially reduces interstate gun trafficking by limiting the creation of untraceable firearms.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential infringement on the freedom of speech by restricting the distribution of digital information (First Amendment).
- May hinder technological innovation in 3D printing and related fields.
- Could be difficult to enforce effectively, as digital files can be shared through various means.
- May lead to increased efforts to circumvent the law through encrypted or private channels.
- Potential for legal challenges based on Second Amendment rights.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. While it aims to enhance public safety, it may face challenges under the First Amendment regarding freedom of speech, as it restricts the distribution of digital information. The Second Amendment right to bear arms could also be invoked, although the Supreme Court has generally held that this right is not unlimited. Congress is attempting to regulate conduct (distribution of code) rather than directly infringing on the right to bear arms. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) could be used to justify the regulation of interstate trafficking of untraceable firearms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).