Plain Language Summary
# SHUSH Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The SHUSH Act (Silencers Help Us Save Hearing Act) would remove federal regulations on firearm silencers. Currently, silencers are heavily regulated under federal law—they require registration, licensing, background checks, and a $200 federal tax to purchase. This bill would eliminate those requirements and allow people to buy and own silencers without federal oversight.
It would also prevent states and cities from creating their own silencer regulations or taxes. **Who it affects and key provisions:** The bill primarily affects gun owners who want to use silencers and the firearms industry. It also removes mandatory minimum prison sentences for crimes involving silencer-equipped guns, and allows active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed silencers. Supporters argue silencers reduce hearing damage and noise pollution; opponents worry that easier access to silencers could hinder law enforcement's ability to detect gunfire and could facilitate crime. **Current status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress (2025-2026) by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
CRS Official Summary
Silencers Help Us Save Hearing Act or the SHUSH ActThis bill removes silencers from regulation under federal firearms laws.Specifically, it removes silencers from the list of firearms subject to regulation (i.e., registration and licensing requirements) under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Additionally, it excludes a muffler or silencer from the list of firearms subject to regulation (e.g., background check requirements) under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA).Additionally, the bill does the following:preempts state or local laws that tax or regulate firearm silencers,specifies that a person who lawfully acquires or possesses a silencer under provisions of the GCA meets the registration and licensing requirements of the NFA,eliminates mandatory minimum prison terms for a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense in which a defendant uses or carries a firearm equipped with a silencer or muffler, andpermits active and retired law enforcement officers to carry a concealed silencer.Finally, the bill excludes firearm mufflers and silencers from regulation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. (Current law generally excludes firearms from regulation by the commission.)
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.