Bill would strip federal registration rules from gun silencers

What does this do?

The SHUSH Act would remove silencers from the National Firearms Act's heavily regulated items list, eliminating the $200 federal tax, background check, months-long wait, and federal registration now required to buy one. Silencers would instead be treated like ordinary gun accessories such as scopes or grips. The bill would also block states and cities from imposing their own special taxes or registration requirements on silencers.

Who does it affect?

Gun owners seeking to buy silencers and dealers who sell them would face fewer federal restrictions and a simpler sales process. Federal agencies currently overseeing silencer registrations, including the ATF, would have a reduced oversight role.

Why does it matter?

People in states that currently ban or heavily restrict silencers could be affected, since the bill would remove some state-level rules, though states could still ban silencers outright through other laws. Federal agencies managing silencer registrations would see their role in overseeing these devices significantly reduced.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $200 federal tax eliminated
• Refunds possible for post-2015 payments
• Tax applies per silencer transfer

Where does it stand?