Iowa: Senate Vote on Suppressor Legalization Scheduled for Tomorrow

The ASA has received word that House File 2279 will be taken up by the Iowa State Senate tomorrow. The bill, which passed the Iowa Senate Judiciary Committee by an 11 – 2 margin, seeks to legalize suppressors in The Hawkeye State. We will be sure to keep you updated once the floor debate and vote take place.

The ASA is very excited about the prospects of this bill becoming law, but we need your help to push this effort past the finish line! Using this link, please contact your Senators and politely urge them to support HF 2279. 

Iowa Senate Contact Information

There are many benefits to using a suppressor, including:

1. HEARING PROTECTION: Noise induced hearing loss and tinnitus are two of the most common afflictions for recreational shooters and hunters. Everyone knows that gunfire is loud, but very few people understand the repercussions that shooting can have on their hearing until it’s too late. Suppressors reduce the noise of a gunshot by an average of 20 – 35 dB, which is roughly the same as earplugs or earmuffs. By decreasing the overall sound signature, suppressors help to preserve the hearing of recreational shooters, hunters, and hunting dogs around the world.
2. SAFER HUNTING: Most hunters do not wear hearing protection in the field because they want to hear their surroundings. The trouble is, exposure to even a single unsuppressed gunshot can, and often does, lead to permanent hearing damage. Suppressors allow hunters to maintain full situational awareness, while still protecting their hearing. The result is a safer hunting experience for the hunter, and for those nearby.
3. NOISE COMPLAINTS: As urban developments advance into rural areas, shooting ranges and hunting preserves across the country are being closed due to noise complaints. Although it can still be heard, suppressed gunfire helps mitigate noise complaints from those who live near shooting ranges and hunting land.
4. ACCURACY:  Suppressors reduce recoil, and help decrease muzzle flinch. These benefits lead to improved accuracy, better shot placement, and more humane hunts.