Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Silencers Helping Us Save Hearing (SHUSH) Act, aimed at simplifying the purchase process for firearm suppressors and reducing regulatory obstacles.

“Law-abiding Americans should not be subject to unnecessary federal regulations when purchasing a hearing protection accessory, especially when it relates to their Second Amendment rights,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will reduce unnecessary taxes and requirements associated with suppressors and promote responsible gun ownership.”

“Suppressors are safety accessories, and their purchase should not be subject to antiquated federal controls,” said Sen. Lee. “This bill is about making it easier for responsible gun owners to protect their hearing and safety while enjoying their Second Amendment right.”

Senate cosponsors of the SHUSH Act include Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). The SHUSH Act is endorsed by the National Association for Gun Rights, Gun Owners of America, the National Rifle Association, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

Suppressors, commonly known as silencers, are nonlethal firearm accessories widely used by hunters, sportsmen, and marksmen. These devices enhance safety by reducing noise, recoil, and muzzle blast. Contrary to popular belief, they do not completely silence firearms. Currently, acquiring a suppressor involves an extensive procedure through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), including:

- Completing two copies of ATF Form 4;

- Filling out ATF Form 5330.20 Certification of Compliance;

- Obtaining certification from a local chief law enforcement officer and two copies of fingerprints;

- Submitting two passport photos and a $200 check to the ATF.

This approval process can take 9-12 months.

The SHUSH Act aims to:

- Eliminate federal regulation of suppressors as firearms under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act (GCA);

- Remove existing taxes, fees, and registration requirements associated with suppressors;

- Allow current or retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms with suppressors;

- Preempt state regulations on the manufacture, transfer, transport, or possession of suppressors;

- Strike provisions requiring mandatory minimum sentences for suppressor possession in certain cases;

- Exempt suppressors from regulation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission;

- Provide a provision for a refund of the $200 transfer tax for anyone who purchased a suppressor within two years prior to the enactment of the bill.

If passed, the SHUSH Act will work alongside the Hearing Protection Act to further deregulate suppressors and remove them from the Gun Control Act of 1968.