S.1162 - Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today Act; SHORT Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The SHORT Act aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and Title 18, United States Code, to remove short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and certain other weapons from the definition of firearms under the National Firearms Act (NFA). It also seeks to eliminate disparate treatment of these weapons when used for lawful purposes. The bill includes provisions for the destruction of existing records related to these weapons.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the SHORT Act would significantly reduce federal regulation and taxation on short-barreled rifles and shotguns. This would likely lead to increased ownership and use of these weapons. The preemption of certain state laws could also standardize regulations across the country.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced costs and burdens for gun owners related to NFA regulations.
- Potential increase in the market for short-barreled rifles and shotguns, benefiting manufacturers and retailers.
- Standardization of regulations across states, simplifying compliance for gun owners who travel or relocate.
- Elimination of the need for registration and transfer records, reducing administrative overhead for the government.
- May enhance the ability of law-abiding citizens to own firearms for self-defense.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in gun violence due to easier access to short-barreled rifles and shotguns.
- Erosion of state authority to regulate firearms within their borders.
- Loss of valuable data related to gun ownership and transfers, hindering law enforcement efforts.
- Increased difficulty in tracking and recovering these weapons if used in crimes.
- Concerns that the Act could disproportionately benefit gun manufacturers and dealers at the expense of public safety.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Proponents would argue it reinforces the Second Amendment right to bear arms. Opponents might contend that it infringes upon the government's ability to regulate firearms for public safety, potentially conflicting with the Commerce Clause and the Tenth Amendment regarding states' rights.
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).