H.R.373 - Second Amendment Guarantee Act; SAGA Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 373, also known as the Second Amendment Guarantee Act (SAGA Act), seeks to amend Title 18 of the United States Code to limit the authority of states and localities in regulating rifles and shotguns. The bill aims to prevent states and local governments from imposing more restrictive regulations, prohibitions, or taxes on rifles and shotguns than federal law provides. It includes provisions that define 'rifle or shotgun' broadly, encompassing parts, magazines, and certain design features.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the SAGA Act would significantly curtail the power of state and local governments to enact stricter gun control measures related to rifles and shotguns. States with stricter laws would need to revise them to align with federal standards, potentially leading to increased availability of these firearms. This could also lead to legal challenges against existing state and local gun control laws.
Potential Benefits
- Protection of Second Amendment Rights: Advocates argue it reinforces the Second Amendment by preventing overly restrictive state and local laws.
- Uniformity: Creates a more uniform legal landscape for gun owners across different states.
- Reduced Legal Burden: May reduce the risk of conflicting state and federal laws for gun owners and manufacturers.
- Protection from Excessive Taxation: Prevents states and localities from imposing excessive taxes or fees on rifles and shotguns.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Gun Availability: Could lead to increased availability of rifles and shotguns in states with stricter gun control laws.
- Reduced State Autonomy: Limits the ability of states and localities to address specific concerns related to gun violence.
- Potential for Increased Gun Violence: Opponents argue that weakening gun control measures could lead to increased gun violence.
- Legal Challenges: May trigger legal challenges from states and localities seeking to defend their gun control laws.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment hinges on the interpretation of the Second Amendment, which guarantees the right to bear arms. Proponents argue it reinforces this right by limiting state and local regulations. Opponents contend that it infringes upon states' rights under the Tenth Amendment to regulate for public safety. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) is also relevant, as the bill regulates items that have moved in interstate commerce.
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).