Us Congress House Bill HB4064

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/20/25
• Refer: 6/20/25

Caption

Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act

Impact

The introduction of HB 4064 symbolizes a significant shift in the treatment of firearms in the context of bankruptcy law. By explicitly including firearms in the list of exempt property, the bill aims to align legal protections with the interests of gun owners, allowing them to retain ownership of a critical piece of their personal property. This could potentially reduce the number of firearms that are liquidated to satisfy debts, thus maintaining ownership within the community of lawful gun owners and upholding their rights in adverse financial situations.

Summary

House Bill 4064, known as the Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act, seeks to amend title 11 of the United States Code by adding provisions that allow for the exemption of firearms as property in bankruptcy proceedings. This bill specifically includes language that permits debtors to exempt up to $3,000 in value for a single firearm or firearms from their estate during bankruptcy, thereby protecting a portion of their ownership rights even in financial duress. This legislative move is aimed at ensuring that gun owners do not have their rights infringed upon when faced with insolvency.

Contention

While proponents of HB 4064 argue that it safeguards the rights of responsible gun owners, critics may view it as an unnecessary legal expansion that could complicate bankruptcy proceedings. Opposition could arise from groups advocating for tighter regulation of firearms, as well as from those concerned about the implications of granting cash value exemptions to firearms. Debates surrounding the bill may center on the broader discussion of personal property rights versus societal responsibility in gun ownership and financial regulation.