S. 1955: Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act
This bill, titled the Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act, aims to amend laws relating to the legal responsibilities of firearms manufacturers and dealers. The proposed changes focus on two main areas:
Repeal of Protections for Firearms Manufacturers
The bill intends to repeal certain sections of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), specifically Sections 2, 3, and 4. The PLCAA currently provides legal protections to gun manufacturers and dealers, essentially shielding them from lawsuits stemming from the criminal or negligent misuse of firearms. By repealing these sections, the bill would allow victims of gun violence to hold manufacturers and retailers accountable in civil courts under specific circumstances.
Access to Gun Trace Data
Under the bill, information from the Firearms Trace System database, managed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), would become accessible in legal proceedings. This data includes records that trace firearm sales and ownership histories. The key provisions include:
- Discoverability: Gun trace information may be requested through legal processes, such as subpoenas.
- Admissibility: This information can be presented as evidence in civil cases, allowing for its use in court proceedings.
- Testimony and Evidence: Testimony and additional evidence based on this data may be allowed in both state and federal courts, as well as administrative settings.
Impact on Legal Proceedings
The changes proposed by this bill could significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding firearms and the accountability of their manufacturers and sellers. Victims of gun violence may find it easier to pursue legal action against companies linked to firearms used in criminal acts, potentially leading to more lawsuits and a reevaluation of business practices within the firearms industry.
Relevant Companies
- BA - Boeing Company: If involved in firearms manufacturing or sales, the company could face increased legal exposure.
- RGR - Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.: As a firearms manufacturer, they may be directly affected by the increased possibility of lawsuits.
- GSFI - General Steel Holdings, Inc.: Companies linked to gun sales may experience impacts on business due to potential liabilities.
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
25 bill sponsors
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TrackRichard Blumenthal
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TrackTammy Baldwin
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TrackCory A. Booker
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TrackChristopher A. Coons
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TrackTammy Duckworth
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TrackRichard J. Durbin
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TrackJohn Fetterman
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TrackKirsten E. Gillibrand
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TrackJohn W. Hickenlooper
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TrackMazie K. Hirono
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TrackTim Kaine
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TrackEdward J. Markey
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TrackJeff Merkley
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TrackChristopher Murphy
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TrackPatty Murray
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TrackAlex Padilla
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TrackJack Reed
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TrackBernard Sanders
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TrackAdam B. Schiff
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TrackCharles E. Schumer
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TrackChris Van Hollen
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TrackElizabeth Warren
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TrackPeter Welch
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TrackSheldon Whitehouse
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TrackRon Wyden
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Actions
2 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Jun. 04, 2025 | Introduced in Senate |
| Jun. 04, 2025 | Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. |
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