Us Congress Senate Bill SB3303

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/23
• Refer: 11/14/23

Caption

Lori Jackson-Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act

Impact

The legislation is designed to fill gaps in existing federal laws, which only protect certain categories of victims from gun possession by their abusers, primarily spouses and individuals with whom they share children. Nevertheless, research indicates that extending restrictions to encompass a broader range of abusive relationships—such as dating partners—has been associated with a decrease in intimate partner homicides. By creating a uniform standard for firearm surrender across states and tribal jurisdictions, SB3303 aims to enhance the safety of domestic violence victims during particularly dangerous periods when they leave their abusers.

Summary

SB3303, also known as the Lori Jackson-Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act, aims to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence by restricting the ability of their abusers to possess firearms. The act seeks to amend title 18 of the United States Code to ensure that individuals subjected to domestic violence protection orders are prohibited from purchasing or receiving firearms. It establishes a mandatory firearm surrender process upon the issuance of such protection orders, outlining specific procedures for law enforcement to follow regarding the surrender and storage of firearms and ammunition.

Contention

Despite the supportive aims of SB3303, there are concerns regarding potential pushback from gun rights advocacy groups who view the legislation as an infringement on Second Amendment rights. Critics may argue that additional restrictions could lead to difficulties for law-abiding citizens in accessing firearms while not adequately addressing the root causes of domestic violence. Additionally, the implementation of the proposed firearm surrender orders will require a coordinated effort between law enforcement agencies and courts, raising questions about the logistical feasibility and resource allocation necessary to enforce this federal mandate effectively.