Senate rules block gun deregulation in Trump’s massive budget bill
The Senate recently faced a setback in passing President Donald Trump’s comprehensive bill, as a provision aimed at relaxing regulations on certain firearms was rejected by the Senate parliamentarian. This provision, part of the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act, would have removed short-barrel rifles, shotguns, and suppressors from the National Firearms Act (NFA), eliminating the need for a $200 federal tax and registration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sen. Roger Marshall, who championed the bill in the Senate alongside Rep. Andrew Clyde in the House, expressed disappointment at the ruling but remains committed to protecting Second Amendment rights through reconciliation. The Byrd Rule, which governs the budget reconciliation process, allows for revisions to the provision to comply with Senate rules.
Rep. Clyde also voiced his disagreement with the decision, citing the interconnected nature of firearm taxation and registration under the NFA. He is collaborating with Senate Republicans to amend the language and preserve Second Amendment victories for the American people.
The parliamentarian’s rulings have sparked fury among Republicans, who are striving to salvage key components of the bill. The ongoing debates are expected to continue until the final bill is unveiled, with tax-related items, subsidies for private schools, and exemptions for religious colleges among those stripped from the package.
Despite these setbacks, other provisions such as “Trump Accounts” for newborns, requirements for Social Security numbers for tax credits, and permanent tax benefits for opportunity zone investors are still under consideration.
The evolving landscape of the bill underscores the intricate legislative process and the delicate balance of interests at play. As discussions unfold, the fate of critical policy changes hangs in the balance, shaping the future trajectory of the “big, beautiful bill” and its implications for American society.
This article was written by Alex Miller, a writer for Fox News Digital covering the U.S. Senate.
