Missouri Lawmakers Push to Repeal Silencer Ban Amid National Gun Control Debate

In a significant development in Missouri's gun legislation landscape, two lawmakers have taken the initiative to repeal the state's ban on firearm silencers, also known as suppressors. This legislative push comes on the heels of a high-profile murder case in New York, where a silencer was allegedly used in the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. State Rep.-elect Mike Costlow and State Sen. Nick Schroer, both Republicans, introduced a bill aimed at repealing the prohibition on possessing or selling these devices, while also seeking to protect silencers manufactured in Missouri from federal prosecution. Costlow argues that the proposed measure is rooted in public health concerns, particularly the prevention of hearing loss among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. He emphasized that silencers serve as a form of hearing protection, noting the personal experiences of friends who have struggled with hearing-related issues. "They are basically hearing protection," Costlow stated, pointing to the potential benefits for hunters who would prefer to enjoy the natural sounds of the outdoors without the disruptive noise of gunfire. Despite the tragic connotations associated with their recent use in a high-profile crime, Costlow remains optimistic that the incident will not derail his proposal. He contends that regardless of whether a suppressor is used, the outcome of such violent events would remain unchanged. "I can understand why optics would say it's bad timing," he acknowledged, but maintained that the intended benefits of silencers should not be overshadowed by their misuse. Under current federal law, silencers are legal in most states but are subject to stringent regulations established in the 1930s. Prospective buyers must navigate a complex process involving fingerprint submissions, background checks, and a $200 transfer tax. The growing interest in suppressors is evident, with the number of registered units in the U.S. increasing from 1.3 million in 2017 to over 4.8 million as of mid-2024, according to the National Firearm Industry Trade Organization. However, the proposal is not without its critics. Gun control advocates, including groups like Everytown for Gun Safety, caution that allowing widespread access to silencers could pose serious public safety risks. They argue that promoting the use of proper ear protection while shooting is a more effective means of safeguarding hearing than expanding access to suppressors. As the legislative session approaches, set to commence on January 8, Missouri's General Assembly is bracing for a contentious debate over gun rights and safety issues. Republicans have introduced a range of bills aimed at bolstering gun rights, such as preventing banks from using credit card codes to track firearm purchases and attempting to ban red flag laws designed to restrict access to firearms for individuals experiencing mental health crises. Conversely, Democrats are advocating for stricter gun control measures, including raising the age limit for purchasing certain rifles and implementing universal background checks. Schroer, acknowledging the potential legal obstacles surrounding the sale of silencers, proposed that the law would not be enacted immediately if signed; instead, it would require the state attorney general to seek guidance from a federal judge on its constitutionality before manufacturers could begin production. As the new lawmakers prepare to navigate their first session, Costlow expressed uncertainty about the likelihood of his proposal advancing. "I'm putting forward the things I'm passionate about," he said, recognizing that as a freshman legislator, he may face challenges in pushing his agenda. Nonetheless, the debate over suppressors is poised to become a focal point in the broader conversation on gun rights and public safety in Missouri.