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HB 2951

Relating to sales and service tax exemption for small arms and small arms accessories

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Anders and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 2951 exempts sales tax on small arms and accessories, making firearms more affordable for consumers and boosting sales for retailers and shooting events.

To House Finance
#taxation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2951

Summary of House Bill 2951

Bill Number: HB 2951
Title: Relating to sales and service tax exemption for small arms and small arms accessories
Status: To House Finance
Introduced: February 25, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Taxation

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2951 aims to amend the West Virginia Code to provide a sales and service tax exemption for small arms, small arms ammunition, and related accessories. The primary intent of this legislation is to reduce the financial burden on consumers exercising their Second Amendment rights by making firearms and related products more affordable.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the West Virginia Code, specifically §11-15-9u, which outlines the following key provisions:

  • Tax Exemption:

    • The sale of small arms, small arms ammunition, and small arms shooting accessories is exempt from sales and service taxes.
    • This exemption also applies to small arms cases and storage devices, as well as shooting sports events.

  • Definitions:

    • Small Arms: Defined as portable firearms designed to be operated by a single person, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns, with specific caliber restrictions.
    • Small Arms Ammunition: Refers to ammunition designed for use in small arms.
    • Small Arms Shooting Accessories: Includes a wide range of items such as targets, optics, cleaning equipment, and shooting range gear.
    • Shooting Sports Events: Encompasses all activities involving small arms at shooting ranges, including both spectator and participatory events.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Consumers: Individuals purchasing small arms and related accessories will benefit from reduced costs due to the tax exemption.
  • Retailers: Businesses selling firearms and accessories may see an increase in sales as a result of lower prices.
  • Shooting Sports Community: Participants and organizers of shooting sports events will benefit from the exemption, potentially leading to increased participation and attendance.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 5, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Laura Faver Dias.
    • February 25, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Finance Committee.
    • March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Education Policy Committee.
    • March 21, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee.
    • April 10, 2025: Chief Co-Sponsor added, Rep. Lilian Jiménez.

Conclusion

House Bill 2951 seeks to enhance access to small arms and related products by eliminating sales and service taxes on these items. By doing so, the bill aims to support the rights of individuals to exercise their Second Amendment rights while potentially stimulating the local economy through increased sales in the firearms sector. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Finance Committee.

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

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