As of May 23, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 1, the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which includes provisions from the Hearing Protection Act (H.R. 404). This legislation aims to deregulate firearm suppressors (commonly known as silencers) by removing them from the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934.American Suppressor Association+5NRA-ILA+5Gun Owners of America+5Congress.gov+8New York Post+8Reddit+8

Key Provisions:

• Elimination of the $200 Tax Stamp: The bill removes the federal excise tax on suppressors, which has been a financial barrier for many gun owners.

• Deregistration from the NFA: Suppressors would no longer require registration under the NFA, eliminating associated fingerprinting and background checks specific to NFA items.Congress.gov+8Reddit+8Gun Owners of America+8

• Preemption of Certain State Laws: The bill seeks to prevent states from imposing their own taxes or registration requirements on suppressors, although state-level bans in places like California and New York would remain unaffected. YouTube+3Gun Owners of America+3Andrew S. Clyde+3

Next Steps:

The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it will undergo further consideration. Supporters are optimistic about its passage, especially since the bill is structured to comply with the Byrd Rule, allowing it to be included in the budget reconciliation process, which requires only a simple majority for approval. American Suppressor Association+1Reddit+1New York Post+1Gun Owners of America+1

Support and Opposition:

• Supporters: Advocates, including the National Rifle Association (NRA), Gun Owners of America (GOA), and the American Suppressor Association (ASA), argue that suppressors are essential for hearing protection and that the current regulations are outdated and burdensome. YouTube+5New York Post+5American Suppressor Association+5

• Opponents: Critics, primarily among Democratic lawmakers, contend that deregulating suppressors could make it more difficult for law enforcement to detect gunfire and could potentially increase the danger in mass shooting situations. NRA-ILA+3New York Post+3Andrew S. Clyde+3

For a visual summary of the recent developments, you might find the following video informative:

This video provides an overview of the bill's passage in the House and its implications.

If you have further questions or need more detailed information on specific aspects of the bill, feel free to ask!

*IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE PRESSURE ON OUR REPRESENATIVES AND LET THEM KNOW THAT YOU SUPPORT THE HEARING PROTECTION ACT IN ITS FULL FORM*

To contact your U.S. Senators,

Dial (202) 224-3121 to reach the U.S. Capitol Switchboard. An operator will connect you directly with the office of any senator you request.