H.R.923 - Stop Arming Cartels Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.923, the Stop Arming Cartels Act of 2025, aims to prohibit the importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of .50 caliber rifles. It also seeks to enhance restrictions on firearm sales to individuals involved in foreign narcotics trafficking. The bill amends Title 18 of the United States Code and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
Expected Effects
The bill would make it more difficult for cartels to acquire high-powered weapons. It would also increase scrutiny of firearm sales and transfers, particularly those involving individuals linked to drug trafficking, potentially reducing the flow of firearms to criminal organizations.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced availability of high-caliber weapons for criminal organizations.
- Enhanced ability to prosecute those who knowingly supply weapons to cartels.
- Strengthened national security by limiting the operational capabilities of cartels.
- Improved public safety through decreased gun violence related to cartel activities.
- Greater accountability for gun manufacturers and sellers regarding illegal arms trafficking.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential infringement on Second Amendment rights for law-abiding citizens.
- Increased costs for legal gun owners due to registration requirements.
- Possible black market increase for .50 caliber rifles.
- Potential overreach in designating individuals as significant foreign narcotics traffickers.
- Increased burden on law enforcement agencies to enforce new regulations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Proponents may argue it falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) and to provide for the common defense. Opponents may argue it infringes upon the Second Amendment right to bear arms. The grandfather clause for existing .50 caliber rifles attempts to mitigate Second Amendment concerns, but legal challenges are still possible.
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).