Committee adopts amendment, advances bill restricting certain 3‑D/CNC firearm manufacturing

The Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee adopted an amendment to House Bill 2,320 and then voted to report the proposed substitute out of committee with a "do pass" recommendation.

Matt Sterling, staff, summarized the bill as prohibiting manufacturing certain firearms and components using 3‑D printers or CNC milling machines, banning possession or distribution of digital firearm manufacturing code, and making some violations per se Consumer Protection Act violations. The proposed substitute, introduced by Rep. Salahuddin, would narrow coverage to devices "advertised, marketed, or promoted to consumers" with the primary function of manufacturing or assembling firearms and would exempt sales to law‑enforcement or military agencies. The substitute also authorized the attorney general to issue civil investigative demands where appropriate.

Representative Walsh moved amendment STIR 120 to remove a rebuttable presumption that mere possession of digital firearm manufacturing code establishes intent to unlawfully distribute or manufacture. Walsh and supporters said the change avoids shifting burdens of proof. The amendment was adopted by voice vote. Sponsors and backers emphasized stakeholder engagement with hobbyists, 3‑D‑printing experts, law enforcement and the attorney general's office to refine definitions and avoid chilling legitimate hobbyist activity; opponents said the bill still risks harming lawful businesses and hobbyists.

Staff announced a roll‑call of 8 ayes, 5 nays; by that tally the substitute was reported out of committee with a due‑pass recommendation.