Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.2930 - Preserving Rights Of Tenants by Ensuring Compliance To the Second Amendment Act; PROTECT the Second Amendment Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.2930, also known as the "PROTECT the Second Amendment Act," aims to ensure that residents of federally assisted rental housing can lawfully possess firearms. The bill prevents housing authorities from prohibiting or adding restrictions to the lawful possession of firearms by residents within their dwelling units or common areas while transporting the firearm to or from their unit. This applies to housing programs administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Secretary of Agriculture.

Expected Effects

If enacted, this bill would limit the ability of federally assisted rental housing providers to restrict firearm possession by residents. This could lead to changes in housing policies to align with the new federal standard. The practical effect would be to standardize firearm policies across federally subsidized housing, potentially increasing the presence of firearms in these communities.

Potential Benefits

  • Upholds Second Amendment rights for residents of federally assisted housing.
  • Provides a uniform standard for firearm possession in federally subsidized housing, reducing confusion.
  • Empowers individuals to protect themselves within their homes.
  • Limits potential overreach by housing authorities in restricting legal firearm ownership.
  • Could deter crime by allowing law-abiding citizens to possess firearms for self-defense.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May increase the risk of accidental shootings or misuse of firearms in housing complexes.
  • Could lead to conflicts between residents with differing views on firearms.
  • May strain the resources of local law enforcement due to increased firearm presence.
  • Could potentially increase violence or the perception of unsafety in these communities.
  • May face resistance from housing authorities concerned about safety and liability.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill aligns with the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the right of the people to keep and bear Arms. The bill seeks to prevent infringement on this right within federally assisted rental housing. However, the extent to which the Second Amendment applies to restrictions imposed by landlords or housing authorities is a complex legal question. The bill attempts to clarify this by setting a federal standard.

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).