Modern Firearm Safety Act
Summary
The "Modern Firearm Safety Act" aims to prevent states and localities from imposing requirements on handguns that are not mandated by federal law. It seeks to standardize handgun features across the United States, preventing states from requiring specific designs or safety mechanisms. The bill amends Section 927 of Title 18 of the United States Code to achieve this goal.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would limit the ability of states to regulate handgun features beyond federal standards. This could lead to more uniform handgun designs across the country. It may also impact public safety depending on the effectiveness of the preempted state regulations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of handguns in states with strict regulations.
- Reduced costs for manufacturers due to standardized production.
- Protection of Second Amendment rights by preventing overly restrictive state laws.
- Streamlined interstate commerce of handguns.
- Prevents states from implementing handgun restrictions that exceed federal standards.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential weakening of state-level efforts to enhance handgun safety.
- Increased risk of accidental shootings or misuse in states with weaker regulations.
- Reduced ability of states to respond to specific local safety concerns.
- Possible increase in gun violence if safety features are removed.
- May undermine public health initiatives related to firearm safety.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's sponsors argue it aligns with the Second Amendment, protecting the right to bear arms. It also touches on interstate commerce, which Congress has the power to regulate under Article I, Section 8. However, opponents may argue it infringes on states' rights to regulate for public safety, potentially violating the Tenth Amendment.
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).