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S 1670

An Act permitting the manufacture and sale of sling shots

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Peter Durant and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill permits manufacturing and selling slingshots, reversing a decades-long state prohibition on the devices.

Hearing scheduled for 05/07/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
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Bill Summary · S 1670

Legislative bill overview

S 1670 would legalize the manufacture and sale of slingshots in Massachusetts, which are currently prohibited under state law. The bill removes restrictions on these devices, allowing them to be produced and sold commercially within the state.

Why is this important

Massachusetts has banned slingshots for decades, treating them as weapons with similar restrictions to other controlled devices. This bill represents a shift in that policy, potentially affecting sporting goods retailers, hobbyists, and toy manufacturers. The legalization could impact law enforcement's ability to regulate these items and raises questions about public safety considerations around what was previously a banned weapon.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue slingshots pose risks as improvised weapons or projectile devices, particularly in urban areas or near schools, despite their relatively low lethality
  • Definition and regulation gaps: The bill may lack specific language defining what types of slingshots are permitted, creating ambiguity about maximum power, materials, or designs allowed
  • Inconsistency with other restrictions: Massachusetts maintains strict regulations on other projectile devices; legalization could seem inconsistent with broader weapons policy or create enforcement complications for law enforcement

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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