Recent developments in 3-D printing technology have given rise to a new danger: plastic guns that are undetectable to metal detectors or other detection devices. These technologies have led to concerns that criminals may attempt to use undetectable firearms to circumvent security systems and inflict harm.
“Our current law, the Undetectable Firearms Act, was passed over thirty years ago, and it does not adequately address today’s technologies or security risks,” said Rep. Dean.
When the law was enacted in 1988, the public was concerned about guns with frames and grips made of lightweight polymers. The law required that all firearms be at least as detectable as a “security exemplar” that contained 3.7 oz. of stainless steel.
“Today, we face a more pressing issue – firearms made entirely of plastic, or with so much plastic that they fall below the current law’s detection standard,” said Rep. Dean.
The Undetectable Firearms Modernization Act will prohibit the possession of any firearm that is undetectable by airport-level detection devices. Known as H.R. 869, the bill requires any firearm with all of its major components attached to generate a gun-shaped image in the detection systems.
“By updating our law and ensuring that undetectable weapons are prohibited, we can protect the American people and preserve our communities.”
The Undetectable Firearms Modernization Act is cosponsored by Reps. Jamie Raskin (MD-8), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), James Langevin (RI-2), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5), Earl Blumenauer (OR-3), Steve Cohen (TN-9), David Trone (MD-6), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Mike Doyle (PA-18), Lucy McBath (GA-6), Darren Soto (FL-9), Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24). The bill has also earned support from advocacy organizations including Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action, and Orange Wave for Gun Safety.
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For more information, please contact Matt Bieber, Communications Director for Rep. Dean, at 202-569-2879 or Matthew.Bieber@mail.house.gov
