Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Two pro-gun bills remain unfinished in the House Judiciary Committee, and Gun Owners of America says Second Amendment supporters should start pressing Congress now.
The bills address two different problems: targeted firearm taxes and lawsuits aimed at the firearms industry. GOA supports both measures, although it wants lawmakers to broaden one before moving it forward.
Blocking Targeted Gun Taxes
H.R. 2442, the Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act, would prohibit states and local governments from imposing excise taxes on firearms, ammunition and related components sold by manufacturers or dealers.
Reps. Darrell Issa, Richard Hudson and Doug LaMalfa introduced the House bill. Sen. Jim Risch introduced the Senate companion as S. 1169.
For gun owners, the benefit is straightforward. States could not single out firearm purchases for additional “sin taxes” intended to increase prices or discourage ownership.
The proposal would not disturb the existing Pittman-Robertson excise taxes that fund wildlife conservation, hunter education and public shooting ranges. That exemption is specifically included in the committee draft.
Strengthening Protection Against Lawsuits
H.R. 9298, the Stopping Harmful and Outrageous Torts Act, would strengthen the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
Rep. Derek Schmidt introduced the SHOT Act with Rep. Glenn Grothman as an original cosponsor. The bill would clarify protections for firearm manufacturers, sellers and trade associations facing lawsuits tied to the criminal misuse of lawful products.
The proposal would also expand the definition of protected products to include magazines, optics and other firearm accessories. It would permit covered defendants to move certain cases from state court to federal court and recover legal costs after successfully asserting PLCAA immunity. It also seeks to preempt state and local laws designed to impose liability for third-party criminal misuse.
SEE ALSO: Hell Froze Over: Glock 43X CA Hits California
GOA supports the bill’s general direction but wants an important change. The organization is asking Congress to extend the protections to nonprofit Second Amendment organizations and individuals involved in lawful firearms commerce or advocacy.
That change could matter as lawsuits and subpoenas increasingly reach beyond manufacturers and retailers into firearms media, nonprofit groups and independent creators.
The House Judiciary Committee scheduled both bills for a September 16 markup. However, its official record shows no final committee vote on either measure.
GOA is asking supporters to contact their representatives before the expected post-election lame-duck session. The U.S. Capitol switchboard can be reached at (202) 224-3121. Callers can ask to be connected with their House member and request support for H.R. 2442 and an amended H.R. 9298.
*** Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica! ***
Available on GunsAmerica Now
is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.