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SB 1069

prohibited weapons; muffling device; repeal

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Wendy Rogers

Arizona bill repeals the state prohibition on firearm silencers/suppressors, allowing legal manufacture, sale, and possession despite existing federal restrictions and registration requirements.

Vetoed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1069

Legislative bill overview

SB 1069 repeals Arizona's prohibition on firearm muffling devices (silencers/suppressors). Currently, Arizona law bans the manufacture, sale, transfer, and possession of devices designed to muffle firearm noise. This bill would eliminate those restrictions, allowing citizens to legally own and use suppressors.

Why is this important

Suppressors reduce gunshot noise but do not make firearms silent as depicted in media. The change affects public health and safety policy, law enforcement operations, and hunting regulations. It also impacts interstate commerce since federal law currently restricts suppressors to registered owners, creating potential conflicts with state law.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Suppressors could complicate law enforcement's ability to locate and respond to active shooters, and may reduce community awareness of gunfire in populated areas
  • Federal-state legal conflict: Federal law heavily regulates suppressors through the National Firearms Act, requiring registration and taxation; Arizona's repeal may create confusion about legal compliance
  • Hunting and noise concerns: While supporters note suppressors reduce hearing damage and noise pollution, opponents worry about diminished neighborhood gunshot awareness and hunter safety communication in rural areas

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

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