Less Than Lethal Act
Summary
The "Less Than Lethal Act" aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and the National Firearms Act to account for advancements in technology, specifically concerning less-than-lethal weapons. It seeks to exempt certain less-than-lethal projectile devices and related ammunition from firearms and ammunition taxes, as well as from the regulations of the National Firearms Act.
The bill defines 'less-than-lethal projectile device' and establishes a process for manufacturers to request classification of their devices. It also mandates the Secretary to maintain and annually update lists of both less-than-lethal devices and non-lethal devices exceeding a certain projectile velocity, and to report these lists to Congress.
In essence, the bill aims to modernize regulations surrounding less-than-lethal weapons, potentially impacting their availability and use.
Expected Effects
The act could lead to increased availability and use of less-than-lethal weapons by law enforcement and potentially civilians. This could change the landscape of law enforcement tactics and personal defense strategies.
It may also spur innovation in the less-than-lethal weapons industry, as manufacturers seek to develop devices that meet the bill's criteria for exemption. The changes in tax and regulatory burdens could affect the cost and accessibility of these devices.
Finally, the annual review and reporting requirements will create a continuous feedback loop between manufacturers, regulators, and Congress, shaping future policy in this area.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Tax Burden: Manufacturers of qualifying less-than-lethal devices will benefit from tax exemptions, potentially lowering costs.
- Increased Innovation: The act may incentivize the development of new and improved less-than-lethal technologies.
- Clarity in Regulation: The act provides a clearer definition of less-than-lethal devices, reducing ambiguity in existing firearms laws.
- Potential for Safer Law Enforcement: Wider availability of less-than-lethal options could reduce the use of deadly force in certain situations.
- Increased Transparency: The annual reporting requirement ensures congressional oversight and public awareness of less-than-lethal technologies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Misuse: Increased availability of less-than-lethal weapons could lead to misuse or abuse by law enforcement or civilians.
- Risk of Injury: While designed to be less-than-lethal, these devices can still cause serious injury or even death under certain circumstances.
- Complexity in Classification: Determining whether a device meets the definition of 'less-than-lethal' may be complex and subject to interpretation.
- Erosion of NFA Regulations: Exempting certain devices from the National Firearms Act could set a precedent for further exemptions, potentially weakening gun control measures.
- Unintended Consequences: The act could have unforeseen consequences on crime rates, policing practices, and public safety.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill potentially aligns with the Second Amendment by clarifying regulations around certain arms, though this is a complex issue with varying interpretations. The Second Amendment protects the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, but the extent of this right is subject to ongoing debate and legal precedent.
The bill also touches on issues related to taxation and regulation, which fall under the powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. This section grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, as well as to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states.
Finally, the reporting requirements in the bill ensure congressional oversight, which is a key aspect of the separation of powers and checks and balances established by the Constitution.
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).