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H 1700

An Act relative to noise reduction devices

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 1 co-sponsor

The bill imposes enhanced penalties up to 10 years for possession of a firearm suppressor when the possessor is a prohibited person, commits a crime, or is involved with drugs or v

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1700

Summary of Bill H.1700: An Act relative to noise reduction devices

Overview

  • Bill: H.1700 (House Number 1700)
  • Title: An Act relative to noise reduction devices
  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Status: Hearing scheduled for May 6, 2025 (1:00 PM–4:00 PM) in Committee A-2
  • Section targeted: Amends Section 10A of Chapter 269 of the Massachusetts General Laws
  • Context: The bill is part of the 194th Massachusetts General Court (2025–2026). A related measure, House Docket No. 1610, is the file for the same bill. Related prior matter: HD 1496 of 2023-2024.

Purpose and intent

  • The primary purpose is to regulate the possession of firearm suppressors (noise reduction devices) and to specify penalties when certain conditions apply.
  • The bill aligns Massachusetts definitions with federal terminology by defining “firearm suppressor” or “firearm noise reduction device” consistently with 18 U.S.C. § 921(24).

Key provisions and changes

  • Amendment to Section 10A (Chapter 269): The section is repealed and replaced with new language defining penalties and terms.
  • Penalties for possession of a firearm suppressor:
    • If the person in possession is:
    • a prohibited person under §131 of Chapter 140; or
    • in the commission of a violent crime or felony; or
    • in the commission of a crime of violence against a family member; or
    • conducting sales or possesses controlled substances as defined in Chapter 94C;
    • then the person shall be punished by:
    • up to 10 years in state prison, or
    • up to 2.5 years in a jail or house of correction.
  • Definitions:
    • “Firearm suppressor” or “firearm noise reduction device” means any device for muffling or diminishing the report of a portable firearm, including any combination of parts designed or redesigned and intended for use in assembling or fabricating a firearm muffler, and any part intended only for use in such assembly or fabrication.
    • The term has the same meaning as Federal Law 18 U.S.C. 921(24).

Affected parties and activities

  • Individuals in possession of a firearm suppressor who meet any of the specified criteria (prohibited person, during the commission of a crime/violent crime, crime of violence against a family member, or in connection with controlled substances) would face enhanced penalties.
  • The bill focuses on possession when linked to these disqualifying conditions; it does not appear to create blanket penalties for all possessors regardless of status or crime context.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • Committee action: Referred to The Judiciary (per filing).
  • Hearing: Scheduled for May 6, 2025 (A-2); multiple entries indicate a hearing session on that date.
  • Related actions: The bill’s text is part of House Docket No. 1610; similar matter previously filed as House No. 1496 in 2023-2024.

Additional context

  • The bill explicitly references federal terminology and aligns Massachusetts law with federal definitions for silencers/noise reduction devices.
  • Potential impact discussions may address criminal justice outcomes, enforcement challenges, and any implications for individuals who possess such devices in lawful contexts.

Next steps

  • Monitor the May 6, 2025 hearing for committee consideration, potential amendments, and movement toward floor action.

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

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