Bill would exempt less-lethal stun devices from firearms tax and NFA rules

What does this do?

This bill creates a legal definition for "less-than-lethal projectile devices" and exempts them and their ammunition from the special firearms manufacturing tax and the National Firearms Act's stricter rules. To qualify, a device can't fire regular gun ammunition, generally can't exceed 500 feet per second, must be designed to avoid death or serious injury, and can't use standard semiautomatic magazines. Treasury would review manufacturer requests within 90 days and maintain public lists of approved and near-qualifying devices, reporting annually to Congress.

Who does it affect?

Companies that make less-lethal weapons (used by police, security firms, or for self-defense), plus retailers and buyers of these products, are directly affected. The Treasury Department gains new review, classification, and reporting duties.

Why does it matter?

Removing the extra tax and NFA restrictions could change production, sale, and purchase requirements for these devices. Treasury would take on ongoing administrative responsibilities to classify products and report to Congress each year.

Where does it stand?