S.2156 - Making America Safe and Secure Act of 2025; MASS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Making America Safe and Secure Act of 2025" (MASS Act) aims to encourage states to implement and maintain firearms licensing requirements through federal grants. The bill defines key terms like 'covered license,' 'prohibited individual,' and 'thorough background check,' establishing standards for firearm licensing. It outlines specific elements that state licensing requirements should incorporate, including background checks, safety training, and processes for revoking or suspending licenses.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the MASS Act would lead to more standardized and stringent firearms licensing across states that choose to participate. This could potentially reduce gun violence by preventing prohibited individuals from acquiring firearms. The Act would also create a framework for states to address extreme risk protection orders and domestic violence protection orders related to firearms.
Potential Benefits
- Potential reduction in gun violence through stricter licensing requirements.
- Standardized background check processes across participating states.
- Increased accountability for firearms dealers.
- Enhanced safety training for first-time firearms license applicants.
- Establishment of processes for extreme risk protection orders.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential infringement on Second Amendment rights for law-abiding citizens.
- Increased burden and costs for individuals seeking to obtain or renew firearms licenses.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies in the licensing process.
- Concerns about data privacy related to the collection and dissemination of firearms license information.
- Possible overreach by the federal government into state affairs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The MASS Act's constitutional alignment is complex. Proponents argue it falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce and promote public safety. Opponents contend it infringes upon the Second Amendment right to bear arms. The Act's emphasis on state implementation allows for variations that could align with different interpretations of the Second 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).