Devices that fire less-than-lethal projectiles — like rubber bullets, bean bags, and pepper balls — would be exempt from federal firearms regulations under this bill. Currently, some of these devices are classified as firearms because of how they're constructed, even though they're designed specifically not to kill. The exemption would apply to any device that uses a powder charge to launch a projectile intended to incapacitate without causing death, making them easier to purchase and own.
Congressional Summary
Innovate to De-Escalate Modernization ActThis bill removes less-than-lethal projectile devices (e.g., certain TASERs) from regulation under the Gun Control Act.The term less-than-lethal projectile device means a device that (1) is not designed or intended to expel (and may not be readily converted to discharge) commonly used ammunition or projectiles exceeding a velocity of 500 feet per second; (2) is designed and intended to be used in a manner not likely to cause death or serious bodily injury; and (3) does not accept (and cannot be readily modified to accept) an ammunition feeding device.The bill also requires the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to determine whether a device satisfies the definition of a less-than-lethal projectile device within 90 days of a request.
Legislative Subjects
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2025-04-03
- Date Added
- 2026-04-06