H.R.60 - Knife Owners’ Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.60, the Knife Owners’ Protection Act of 2025, aims to protect the right of law-abiding citizens to transport knives interstate, addressing the burden of varying state and local prohibitions. The bill defines key terms like "State" and "transport," outlining specific requirements for transporting knives by motor vehicle, air, and other means. It also includes provisions for emergency knives and temporary lodging, and it protects individuals from arrest or detention if they comply with the Act's requirements.
Expected Effects
The Act, if enacted, would create a federal standard for the interstate transportation of knives, overriding conflicting state and local laws. This would allow individuals to transport knives across state lines without fear of prosecution, provided they adhere to the Act's guidelines regarding storage and accessibility. The bill also establishes a right of action for individuals whose rights under the Act are violated, potentially leading to litigation against states or localities.
Potential Benefits
- Simplifies knife transportation regulations for law-abiding citizens traveling interstate.
- Provides a legal defense against state and local laws that conflict with the Act.
- Offers a right of action for individuals whose rights are violated, potentially deterring unlawful enforcement.
- Clarifies the rules for transporting emergency knives, enhancing safety.
- Reduces the risk of accidental legal violations for knife owners.
Potential Disadvantages
- May complicate law enforcement efforts to prevent crime involving knives.
- Could lead to increased litigation as individuals challenge state and local knife laws.
- May face opposition from states and localities that prefer stricter knife control measures.
- The definition of "emergency knives" could be subject to interpretation and potential abuse.
- Could potentially undermine existing state laws designed to enhance public safety.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is rooted in the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By establishing uniform rules for the interstate transportation of knives, the bill seeks to prevent states from unduly burdening this aspect of commerce. The Second Amendment right to bear arms could also be invoked, although the bill focuses on transportation rather than the right to possess knives.
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).