S.468 - Safety Enhancements for Communities Using Reasonable and Effective Firearm Storage Act; SECURE Firearm Storage Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.468, the SECURE Firearm Storage Act, aims to reduce firearm theft and misuse by mandating specific security measures for federally licensed firearms importers, manufacturers, and dealers. The bill amends Title 18 of the United States Code, outlining requirements for firearm and record storage, and establishes penalties for non-compliance. It also directs the Attorney General to prescribe additional security requirements.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to increased security measures at licensed firearms businesses, potentially reducing gun theft and subsequent criminal activity. This could also increase operational costs for these businesses due to the mandated security upgrades. The Attorney General would have increased regulatory authority over firearms dealers.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced firearm theft from licensed dealers, potentially decreasing the number of guns available for criminal use.
- Improved record-keeping security, aiding in tracing firearms used in crimes.
- Enhanced public safety through stricter security protocols at firearms businesses.
- Potential for decreased accidental shootings due to more secure storage.
- Standardized security measures across all federally licensed firearms businesses.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased operational costs for federally licensed firearms importers, manufacturers, and dealers, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.
- Potential for small businesses to struggle with the financial burden of implementing the required security measures.
- Possible delays in firearms transactions due to stricter storage and record-keeping protocols.
- Increased regulatory burden on firearms businesses.
- Potential for legal challenges regarding the scope of the Attorney General's regulatory authority.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Second Amendment is a key consideration. While the Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms, this right is not unlimited. The Supreme Court has acknowledged the government's power to regulate firearms to some extent. This bill focuses on regulating firearms dealers, not individual gun owners, which may be viewed as a reasonable restriction aimed at preventing crime and promoting public safety. The commerce clause (Article I, Section 8) grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, which could be used to justify federal regulation of licensed firearms dealers.
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).