House members debate bill targeting non-serialized ‘ghost’ firearms; supporters and opponents register reservations

Representatives debated a measure aimed at non-serialized firearms—referred to in the debate as "ghost guns"—that would target firearms without manufacturer-applied serial numbers when used in the commission of a felony. Speakers emphasized the bill is intended to address untraceable firearms used in crimes and several members said the measure would not affect registered firearms or law-abiding gun owners.

Representative Hussey spoke in support with reservations, asserting the bill “on its face” targets non-registered firearms that lack serial numbers and “by definition” does not affect law-abiding citizens who exercise Second Amendment rights with serialized firearms. Representative Shimizu recorded opposition, noting concerns about constitutional rights and arguing that the law may disproportionately impact law-abiding citizens; she urged focus on root causes such as mental health and substance abuse. Representative Souza said she supported the bill with reservations and characterized its effect as applying to ghost guns used in the commission of a felony.

Why it matters: supporters framed the measure as a public-safety step to make untraceable firearms used in crimes accountable; opponents worried about constitutional and enforcement implications and urged attention to broader causes of violence. The transcript shows floor-level debate with multiple members expressing support accompanied by reservations and others registering opposition.

The debate was recorded as part of the adoption of standing committee reports, and the committee report tied to this discussion was moved forward. The transcript does not include a full roll-call specifically attached to this single bill in the debate excerpt; committee votes were read into the record as part of the larger package of measures advanced that day.