Gun Violence Prevention Research Act of 2025
Summary
The Gun Violence Prevention Research Act of 2025 authorizes the appropriation of $50 million per year from 2026 through 2031 to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These funds are designated for conducting or supporting research on firearms safety and gun violence prevention. This funding is in addition to any other amounts already allocated for this purpose.
The bill aims to enhance understanding of gun violence and develop evidence-based strategies for prevention. The research would be conducted under the Public Health Service Act.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would increase funding for research into gun violence prevention. This could lead to a better understanding of the causes and potential solutions to gun violence. The research findings could inform policy decisions and public health interventions.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Public Health: Research could lead to strategies that reduce gun violence and improve public health outcomes.
- Evidence-Based Policymaking: Data-driven insights can inform more effective gun violence prevention policies.
- Enhanced Safety Measures: Research may identify new safety measures to reduce accidental shootings and intentional violence.
- Better Resource Allocation: Funds can be directed towards the most promising prevention strategies.
- Increased Awareness: Research findings can raise public awareness about gun violence and its impact.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Misuse of Funds: Concerns that funds may be used for politically motivated research rather than objective scientific inquiry.
- Privacy Concerns: Research involving personal data related to gun ownership could raise privacy issues.
- Limited Impact: Research findings may not translate into effective policy changes or reduced gun violence.
- Increased Government Spending: The appropriation of $50 million per year could increase the federal budget deficit.
- Opposition from Gun Rights Advocates: Some may argue that the research could be biased against gun ownership.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex, particularly concerning the Second Amendment. While the bill itself does not directly regulate firearms, research outcomes could potentially inform future regulations. The appropriation of funds falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8).
However, any subsequent regulations stemming from the research would need to be carefully evaluated to ensure they do not infringe upon the right to bear arms. The First Amendment could also be relevant if the research is perceived as biased or used to suppress certain viewpoints on gun control.
Overall, the bill's constitutionality depends on how the research is conducted and how its findings are used to inform policy.
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).