Yesterday, HF 2043, a bill introduced by Rep. Matt Windschitl that would make Iowa the 42nd state to legalize suppressors, passed out of a subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee on a 2-1 vote. The ASA was on hand to testify in support of the bill, along with the Iowa Firearms Coalition. As you may remember, a similar bill passed the Iowa House last year as well, before running into roadblocks in the Senate. The ASA spent the afternoon at the Capitol in Des Moines meeting with legislators in Iowa in an effort to ensure that HF 2043 passes both chambers this session and makes it to Gov. Branstad’s desk. This bill is expected to head to the full House Judiciary Committee in the coming weeks, before heading to the House floor for a vote.
The American Suppressor Association is working hard to ensure that this bill becomes law, and we are very excited about the prospect of bringing suppressor ownership to the 3 million Iowans who are currently prohibited from owning suppressors. 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.
As always, the American Suppressor Association will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that your suppressor rights are protected and expanded. We will keep you updated as this pro-suppressor legislation advances.
In the mean time, please reach out to your Iowa legislators, particularly your Senators, and respectfully urge them to support this important piece of legislation. Contact information can be found here.
