Donald Trump could be about to lift a firearms law that has been in place for nearly 100 years, leaving many people reeling. He has hinted at scrapping a 91-year-old law on silencers, which was introduced during Prohibition to combat gang violence.
This potential change follows Trump’s earlier decision to end a 20-year ban on selling silencers to non-US citizens, a law that was designed to prevent terrorists from acquiring them. His administration argues that lifting gun laws would support American manufacturers and uphold the constitutional right to bear arms.
Trump has recently directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to review firearm policies, especially those restrictions imposed under President Biden. Biden’s reforms included tougher background checks for individuals under 21 and laws targeting domestic abusers.
Gun-rights advocates, such as Mark Jones from Gun Owners of America, argue that silencers protect hunters’ hearing and reduce rifle recoil. U.S. Rep. Ben Cline supports the Hearing Protection Act, stating, “Law-abiding gun owners should be able to protect their hearing without burdensome regulations.”
However, critics oppose the change, suggesting that suppressors are unnecessary and pointing out that “50-cent foam ear plugs” could serve the same purpose. Currently, silencers require a $200 tax stamp and a lengthy approval process under the 1934 National Firearms Act, which was introduced to curb gang crime like the Valentine’s Day Massacre.
