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Bill

HR 544

To provide a private right of action against the maker of any component of a ghost gun, and any person who facilitated a sale of the ghost gun, for injury or death resulting from the use of the ghost gun.

119th Congress Introduced by Ritchie Torres

HR 544 allows victims of ghost gun violence to sue manufacturers and sellers for damages, enhancing accountability and aiming to reduce untraceable firearms in communities.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 544

Summary of HR 544: Ghost Gun Liability Bill

Bill Number: HR 544
Title: To provide a private right of action against the maker of any component of a ghost gun, and any person who facilitated a sale of the ghost gun, for injury or death resulting from the use of the ghost gun.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: January 16, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 544 is to establish a legal framework that allows individuals and families affected by injuries or deaths caused by ghost guns to seek damages. Ghost guns are firearms that lack serial numbers and can be assembled from kits or parts, making them difficult to trace. This bill aims to hold accountable those who manufacture or sell components of these firearms.

Key Provisions

  1. Private Right of Action:

    • Individuals injured by a ghost gun, or family members of those killed, can file a lawsuit in federal district court against:
      • The maker of any component of the ghost gun.
      • Any person who facilitated the sale of the ghost gun.
    • The lawsuit can seek damages for injuries or deaths resulting from the use of the ghost gun.

  2. Affirmative Defense:

    • Defendants can argue an affirmative defense if:
      • The injury or death was caused by an individual acting in self-defense against a perceived imminent threat.
      • A law enforcement officer acted in response to a perceived imminent threat to public safety.

  3. Definitions:

    • Ghost Gun: Defined as a firearm without a serial number, including any parts designed for assembly into a firearm.
    • Firearm, Licensed Manufacturer, and Licensed Importer: These terms are defined according to existing federal law (18 U.S.C. § 921).

Who Would Be Affected

  • Individuals and Families: Those who suffer injuries or fatalities due to ghost guns would have the right to seek legal recourse.
  • Manufacturers and Sellers: Companies or individuals involved in the production or sale of ghost gun components could face lawsuits and financial liability.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill includes provisions that protect law enforcement actions taken in response to threats, potentially impacting how they engage with incidents involving ghost guns.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on January 16, 2025. Further legislative actions will determine its progression through Congress.

Conclusion

HR 544 seeks to address the growing concern over ghost guns by enabling victims and their families to pursue legal action against those responsible for their manufacture and sale. By providing a private right of action, the bill aims to enhance accountability and potentially reduce the prevalence of untraceable firearms in the community.

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

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