Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1652

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

To fund programs to reduce violence and firearm related injuries

Impact

The bill proposes an additional surcharge of 4.75% on the sale and consumption of firearms, ammunition, and their components, with the intention of funding the trust. This surcharge is designed to generate revenue directly tied to the costs associated with firearm-related incidents, thus holding the gun industry partly accountable for the social issues it creates. The revenues will be directed to the trust fund and utilized without further legislative appropriation, allowing for more agile responses to violence prevention needs at the local level.

Summary

Senate Bill S1652 aims to establish the Violence Reduction and Firearm Injury Prevention Trust Fund in Massachusetts. This bill proposes to allocate funding specifically for programs that focus on reducing violence and firearm-related injuries, particularly targeting youth violence. The intent is to create a structured financial resource that municipalities can draw from to develop and implement local initiatives aimed at addressing these pressing issues. It emphasizes the importance of community-driven solutions while leveraging state resources.

Contention

A potential point of contention surrounding S1652 may involve the introduction of increased taxes on ammunition and firearms, which could face opposition from gun rights advocates and certain business groups. Critics may argue that such surcharges could disproportionately affect law-abiding gun owners and businesses. Conversely, proponents will likely highlight the necessity of funding crucial violence prevention programs, emphasizing public safety and the urgent need to address firearm-related injuries within communities.

Companion Bills

MA S2798

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public safety matters.

Previously Filed As

MA S1653

Relative to firearm industry accountability and gun violence victims’ access to justice

MA S200

To mandate domestic violence and sexual assault awareness education

MA S2798

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public safety matters.

MA H2672

Relative to firearm industry accountability and gun violence victims’ access to justice

MA HB3801

OFFICE OF FIREARM VIOLENCE

MA S554

To reduce plastic packaging waste

MA SB2280

OFFICE FIREARM VIOLENCE PREV

MA SB1286

Relating to the imposition of a sales tax on ammunition, firearms, and firearm accessories to provide funding for the family violence program in the Health and Human Services Commission.

MA S843

Making technical changes to the Betsy Lehman Center for patient safety and medical error reduction enabling statute

MA SB170

Firearms, Gun Violence Protective Order Act, procedure for issuance of gun violence protective order, established

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.