SLC Times

Senator Mike Lee of Utah and Congressman Michael Cloud from Texas have introduced the Silencers Helping Us Save Hearing (SHUSH) Act in both the Senate and House. The bill aims to reduce regulations surrounding firearm suppressors, making it easier for citizens to purchase them by removing bureaucratic hurdles. The legislation has support from several senators including Rick Scott, Pete Ricketts, Roger Marshall, and John Curtis. It is also backed by organizations such as the National Association for Gun Rights, Gun Owners of America, the National Rifle Association, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

“Despite what Hollywood may lead you to believe, silencers aren’t silent, and they aren’t just for secret agents,” stated Senator Lee. He emphasized that suppressors are important for hearing protection among gun enthusiasts and marksmen across America. According to him, making these devices difficult to obtain undermines Second Amendment rights.

Congressman Cloud highlighted that “suppressors are a vital tool for responsible gun owners that protect hearing, enhance safety, and reduce firearm noise.” He criticized federal regulations as excessive and argued that Americans should not face lengthy processes or additional taxes to access such accessories.

Hunter King from the National Association for Gun Rights remarked on how suppressors should be treated like other firearm accessories such as magazines or scopes. He expressed concern about setting precedents that could lead to further regulation of accessories.

Aidan Johnston from Gun Owners of America praised the SHUSH Act's introduction: “The SHUSH Act would not only remove suppressors from the federal regulations of the National Firearms Act but also treat suppressors as any other firearm accessory – free from the infringing background check process.”

Currently, acquiring a suppressor involves an extensive process with multiple forms and certifications required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), which can take 9-12 months. The SHUSH Act proposes eliminating these federal regulations under existing firearms laws while also preempting state-level restrictions.

If enacted alongside related legislation like the Hearing Protection Act, this bill would deregulate suppressors further by removing them from specific gun control laws established in 1968.