Equal Shot Act of 2025
Summary
The Equal Shot Act of 2025 aims to prevent the Small Business Administration (SBA) from discriminating against firearms industry applicants when providing financial assistance. It prohibits the SBA from denying loans or loan guarantees to eligible applicants solely because they are firearm entities, firearm entity affiliates, or firearm trade associations. The bill defines these terms broadly, encompassing manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and related organizations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Equal Shot Act would require the SBA to treat firearms-related businesses the same as other industries when considering applications for financial assistance. This could lead to increased access to capital for these businesses. It could also potentially increase the risk to the SBA if firearms-related businesses are statistically more likely to default on loans.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to capital for firearms-related businesses.
- Potential for growth and expansion within the firearms industry.
- Perceived fairness in government treatment of different industries.
- Support for businesses involved in sport shooting ranges and firearm safety courses.
- Alignment with the Second Amendment by supporting businesses involved in the firearms industry.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased risk to the SBA due to loans to firearms-related businesses.
- Concerns about the potential for increased availability of firearms.
- Possible conflict with efforts to reduce gun violence.
- Opposition from groups advocating for stricter gun control measures.
- Potential for misuse of funds if oversight is inadequate.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Equal Shot Act's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily related to the Second Amendment, which protects the right of the people to keep and bear Arms. By preventing discrimination against firearms-related businesses, the Act could be seen as supporting this right. However, the Constitution does not explicitly guarantee access to government funding for specific industries. The bill also aligns with general principles of equal treatment under the law, although this is typically applied to individuals rather than industries. Article 1, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare, which could be interpreted as providing a basis for either supporting or opposing this type of legislation.
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).