Donald Trump could be about to lift a firearms law that stretches almost 100 years, which has left people reeling. He has hinted at scrapping a 91-year-old law on silencers, introduced during Prohibition to combat gang violence.
The move follows Trump’s earlier decision to end a 20-year ban on selling silencers to non-US citizens, which was intended to prevent terrorists from acquiring them. His administration argues lifting gun laws supports American manufacturers and protects the constitutional right to bear arms.
Trump recently directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to review firearm policies, particularly restrictions imposed under Biden. Biden’s reforms included tougher background checks for under-21s and laws targeting domestic abusers.
Gun-rights advocates, like Gun Owners of America’s Mark Jones, claim silencers protect hunters’ hearing and reduce rifle recoil. US Rep Ben Cline supports the Hearing Protection Act, saying, “Law-abiding gun owners should be able to protect their hearing without burdensome regulations.”
However, critics oppose the change. Some argue suppressors are unnecessary, suggesting “50-cent foam ear plugs” instead. Currently, silencers require a $200 tax stamp and a lengthy approval process under the 1934 National Firearms Act, introduced to curb gang crime like the Valentine’s Day Massacre.
