VERMONT: SUPPRESSOR HUNTING PERMANENTLY LEGAL

MONTPELIER, VT – On June 6, 2024, Governor Phil Scott (R-VT) signed H. 878 into law, removing the two-year sunset provision from S. 281 that temporarily legalized the use of suppressors while hunting in Vermont. With the enactment of the new law hunters in The Green Mountain State no longer have to worry about losing their right to protect their hearing in the field. 

The ASA-backed pro-suppressor provision of the omnibus bill was championed by none other than Representative Pat Brennan (R-Chittenden-9-2). For over a decade, Rep. Brennan has been a stalwart supporter of suppressor rights. Not only did he lead the charge, alongside Rep. George Till (D-Chittenden-3), to allow hunters to use suppressors in 2022, he was instrumental in the legalization of suppressor ownership in Vermont in 2015.

“Working with Representative Brennan over the past twelve years has truly been one of the greatest privileges and honors of my career.”

— Knox Williams, President and Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association

“Working with Representative Brennan over the past twelve years has truly been one of the greatest privileges and honors of my career,” said Knox Williams, Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association. “His tireless work and unwavering dedication is the reason why law-abiding citizens in The Green Mountain State no longer have to choose between jeopardizing their hearing and exercising their Second Amendment rights. What he was able to accomplish is nothing short of extraordinary. The suppressor community, as well as the people of Vermont, will forever be in his debt.”

Knox Williams and Rep. Pat Brennan at a Suppressed Pheasant Hunt during the NASC Conference in New Hampshire (2018).

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 development advances 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.

About the American Suppressor Association

Founded in 2011, the American Suppressor Association has been instrumental in promoting the rights of suppressor owners nationwide, advocating for legal reform, and educating the public about the benefits of suppressors.  ASA’s successful campaigns have resulted in the legalization of suppressors in three states, the use of suppressors while hunting in 19 states, the defeat of numerous attempts to impose state level bans, and the dramatic improvements to NFA transfer times.

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