Bill would encourage weapon manufacturers to develop smart gun technology

Legislation recently introduced in Congress would provide tax incentives to firearm manufacturers and small businesses for the development of smart gun technologies while encouraging consumers to purchase firearms that utilize the technologies.

The Start Advancing Firearms Enhancements and Technology Act was introduced by U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT). A companion bill was introduced in House of Representatives by Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT).

“Smart guns are an innovative way to control who has access to your gun,” Murphy said. “If I can use my finger or face to unlock my cell phone, then firearm manufacturers can be innovative in using technology to secure guns. We know that safely securing guns will cut down on suicides and accidental deaths, especially among children. I’m going to keep doing everything I can to offer proposals that can help save as many lives as possible.”

Both Blumenthal and Murphy have a track record of advocating gun legislation.

Blumenthal introduced the Automatic Gun Fire Prevention Act and the Assault Weapons Ban of 2019.

Murphy reintroduced the Background Check Expansion Act and co-authored the bipartisan Fix NICS Act. The act, which became law last year, improved reporting of criminal records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.