Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB551

Introduced
4/19/23  

Caption

Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The implications of SB551 on state law are significant as it explicitly challenges federal authority over gun control measures. By codifying that federal regulations will not be enforced, the bill may create legal conflicts between state and federal law. If passed, it could lead to broader discussions about states' rights, potentially paving the way for similar bills in other states that wish to assert control over firearm regulations independently of federal mandates.

Summary

SB551 seeks to establish that any federal actions aimed at registering, restricting, or banning firearms, accessories, or regulating the ownership of magazines will be deemed unenforceable within the state. The bill aims to strengthen the rights of firearm owners and asserts the state's authority to resist federal regulations concerning firearms. Proponents argue that this bill is a necessary step to protect the Second Amendment rights of individuals within the state, ensuring that residents can own and use firearms without Federal interference.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB551 appears to be polarized, with strong support from gun rights advocates who perceive it as a robust defense of their constitutional rights. Opponents, however, view the bill as a dangerous precedent that may encourage a culture of defiance against federal law, potentially complicating law enforcement efforts and creating conflicts. The debate reflects wider national discussions surrounding gun control and the balance between state and federal power.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns expressed by law enforcement agencies about the enforceability of this bill and the implications of disregarding federal regulations. Critics highlight that this could lead to inconsistencies in law enforcement across the state, where local authorities may be constrained by state law while federal regulations remain in place. Additionally, the potential for legal challenges surrounding the validity of the bill and its constitutional implications raises significant questions about future governance and regulatory authority.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB242

Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2984

Firearms; prohibiting the enforcement of a federal ban or regulation on firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition; emergency.

PA SB736

Firearms; prohibiting the enforcement of a federal ban or regulation on firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition. Emergency.

PA SB736

Firearms; prohibiting the enforcement of a federal ban or regulation on firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition. Emergency.

PA HJR116

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that federal authority to regulate the manufacture, possession, sale, or use of firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition in this state is not recognized by this state.

PA HB1076

Relating to certain firearms, firearm accessories, and firearm ammunition within the State of Texas; providing an exemption from federal regulation and providing penalties.

PA HB1052

Place limitations on the enforcement of federal laws and orders related to firearms, accessories, and ammunition.

PA HB12

Relating to certain firearms, firearm accessories, and firearm ammunition within the State of Texas; providing an exemption from federal regulation and providing penalties.

PA SB98

AN ACT relating to prohibiting the enforcement of a federal ban or regulation of firearms and declaring an emergency.

PA HB29

AN ACT relating to prohibiting the enforcement of a federal ban or regulation of firearms and declaring an emergency.

Similar Bills

PA HB547

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB703

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

VA HB552

Income tax, corporate; sourcing of sales other than sales of tangible personal property.

VA HB552

Income tax, corporate; sourcing of sales other than sales of tangible personal property.

PA HB1207

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA HB1339

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA SB242

Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.

PA SB811

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for powers reserved to the people.