Equal Shot Act of 2025
Summary
The Equal Shot Act of 2025 aims to prevent the Small Business Administration (SBA) from discriminating against firearm entities, firearm entity affiliates, and firearm trade associations when they apply for financial assistance. This bill ensures that these businesses are treated fairly and equally with other applicants under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958. The Act defines key terms like "firearm entity" and "firearm entity affiliate" to clarify the scope of the protection.
By preventing discrimination, the bill intends to support businesses within the firearms industry. It seeks to ensure they have equal access to SBA resources, such as loans and loan guarantees.
The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Risch and co-sponsored by several other senators. It was read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Equal Shot Act of 2025 would change the SBA's practices regarding financial assistance applications from businesses in the firearms industry. The SBA would be prohibited from implementing policies that discriminate against these applicants solely based on their involvement in the firearms industry.
This could lead to increased access to capital for firearm-related businesses. It may also foster a more equitable environment for these businesses to compete for SBA resources.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures fair and equal treatment for firearms industry applicants seeking SBA assistance.
- May promote economic growth within the firearms industry by facilitating access to capital.
- Could reduce perceived bias or discrimination against businesses involved in the design, manufacture, or sale of firearms.
- Supports businesses that provide firearm-related services, such as shooting ranges and training courses.
- Potentially increases competition and innovation within the firearms industry due to greater access to resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- May face opposition from groups advocating for stricter gun control measures.
- Could be perceived as prioritizing the firearms industry over other sectors.
- May lead to increased availability of firearms and related products, potentially raising concerns about public safety.
- Could strain SBA resources if there is a significant increase in applications from the firearms industry.
- May be viewed as inconsistent with efforts to reduce gun violence.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Equal Shot Act of 2025 potentially aligns with the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the right of the people to keep and bear Arms. By preventing discrimination against businesses involved in the firearms industry, the Act could be interpreted as supporting this right.
Furthermore, the Act could be viewed as promoting equal protection under the law, as it seeks to ensure that firearm-related businesses are not unfairly disadvantaged compared to other businesses seeking SBA assistance. This aligns with general principles of fairness and non-discrimination.
However, the Constitution does not explicitly address the SBA's lending practices. The Act's alignment with the Constitution is indirect, based on interpretations of the Second Amendment and equal protection principles.
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).