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SD 1023

An Act relative to firearm industry accountability and gun violence victims’ access to justice

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill enabling gun violence victims to sue firearm manufacturers and sellers for damages, circumventing federal liability protections.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1023

Legislative bill overview

SD 1023 would establish accountability mechanisms for the firearm industry and create pathways for gun violence victims to pursue legal action against manufacturers and sellers. The bill appears designed to allow civil lawsuits against entities in the firearms supply chain, potentially modifying existing liability protections that currently shield gun manufacturers from certain classes of lawsuits.

Why is this important

Gun violence remains a significant public health issue, and this legislation addresses whether victims should have legal recourse against industry actors beyond the individual who committed the crime. The bill directly challenges the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), a 2005 federal law that broadly shields firearms manufacturers and dealers from liability—a legal framework that has prevented most civil cases from proceeding.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal preemption concerns: The PLCAA may supersede state-level attempts to create new liability standards, potentially making portions of this bill legally unenforceable without federal change
  • Industry impact and costs: Gun manufacturers and dealers argue expanded liability would increase insurance costs, reduce market competition, and effectively function as an industry tax that consumers would bear
  • Definition of accountability: Disputes over what constitutes negligent or wrongful conduct by manufacturers versus retailers—particularly regarding legal sales to licensed dealers or private sellers
  • Victim compensation mechanisms: Questions about whether civil litigation is the appropriate remedy versus dedicated compensation funds or regulatory approaches

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

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