House File 2279, also known as the Iowa Hearing Protection Act, is scheduled for a hearing in a three person subcommittee of the Iowa Senate Judiciary Committee this afternoon. The subcommittee, which is expected to vote on the legislation, will consist of the following Senators:
Steve Sodders – steve.sodders@legis.iowa.gov
Kevin Kinney – kevin.kinney@legis.iowa.gov
Brad Zaun – brad.zaun@legis.iowa.gov
Senate switchboard: (515) 281-3371
Over the past several days, there has been talk of a potential amendment to HF 2279 to remove the Shall Sign/Certify language from the bill. Please contact the members of the subcommittee and politely urge them advance this legislation without amendments.
There are many benefits to using a suppressor, including:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- ACCURACY: Suppressors reduce recoil, and help decrease muzzle flinch. These benefits lead to improved accuracy, better shot placement, and more humane hunts.
