Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB3993

Introduced
6/9/23  

Caption

To provide a private right of action against the maker of any component of a ghost gun, and any person who facilitated a sale of the ghost gun, for injury or death resulting from the use of the ghost gun.

Impact

If enacted, HB3993 significantly impacts existing state laws by opening up manufacturers of ghost guns to civil litigation. Previously, the liability for such firearms was somewhat limited, but the bill seeks to hold accountable those who produce and distribute these weapons. The legislation would allow courts to award damages, including consequential damages, to plaintiffs, thereby increasing the potential financial repercussions for manufacturers and sellers related to ghost guns.

Summary

House Bill 3993 aims to establish a private right of action for individuals injured, or families of individuals killed, by ghost guns. The bill defines a ghost gun as a firearm that lacks a unique serial number and includes any combination of parts designed to be assembled into a firearm. Under this legislation, individuals and states can take legal action against the manufacturers of ghost gun components and anyone who facilitated the sale of these firearms to seek damages resulting from injuries or deaths caused by their use.

Conclusion

Overall, HB3993 represents a significant step in addressing the legal landscape surrounding ghost guns in the U.S. By enabling individuals and governments to seek justice for injuries and deaths caused by these unregulated firearms, the bill seeks to curtail their proliferation and hold accountable those who contribute to their availability. The discussions and debates surrounding this bill will likely highlight broader societal issues regarding gun control and public safety.

Contention

Notably, this bill may face pushback from gun rights advocates and manufacturers who argue that it could lead to increased litigation against companies that produce guns and gun-related components. Critics might argue this could create a chilling effect on the firearm industry, which is already facing scrutiny over gun violence in the United States. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the definition of a ghost gun and how broadly it is applied, allowing for varying interpretations that could complicate enforcement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB544

To provide a private right of action against the maker of any component of a ghost gun, and any person who facilitated a sale of the ghost gun, for injury or death resulting from the use of the ghost gun.

US HB4679

Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act of 2023

US HB4992

Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act of 2023

US HB5460

Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act

US SB2652

Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act of 2023

US HB2698

Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act

US HB3373

GHOST Act of 2025 Gun Hardware Oversight and Shipment Tracking Act of 2025

US SB3682

GHOST Act Ghost Handouts and Overpayments Stop Today Act

US HB7135

GHOST Act Ghost Handouts and Overpayments Stop Today Act

US SB34

Facilitating the Reshoring of Energy Grid Component Manufacturing Act of 2023 This bill directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a loan program for the production of energy grid products or components. Under the program, DOE may provide loans for activities related to projects that reequip, expand, or establish manufacturing facilities to produce energy grid products or their components. Energy grid products include large power transformers or any other electrical equipment commonly used for the transmission or distribution of electric energy by public electric utilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.