Senate approves repeal of state ban on silencers despite law-enforcement objections

Senator Ginn presented SB 499 to repeal the state prohibition on possessing a silencer and to align state law with federal restrictions and penalties. The sponsor framed the bill as important to hunters and shooters who use silencers for hearing protection and nuisance reduction, noting the importance of preserving law-abiding owners' rights.

Opponents on the floor warned that silencers have been used in high-profile crimes and that rolling back the state prohibition could undermine sound-detection and other public-safety tools used by police and sheriffs. Senator 22 argued the bill "is unnecessary" and would "encourage criminals" who could exploit quieter weapons to commit violent crime.

After debate and the adoption of a committee substitute, the Senate passed SB 499 (yeas 30, nays 20). Supporters said the bill includes felony penalties for use of a silencer in the commission of a crime; critics urged continued consultation with law enforcement.