# Plain Language Summary: 3D Printed Gun Safety Act of 2023

This bill aims to regulate the manufacturing and distribution of firearms made using 3D printing technology. The core issue is that advances in 3D printing have made it possible for people to manufacture functional guns at home using a 3D printer and relatively simple materials, without going through traditional gun dealers or background checks. This bill would make it illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess firearms or firearm parts made through 3D printing technology, with some limited exceptions for licensed manufacturers and authorized government use.

The practical impact is that individuals would no longer be able to legally 3D print guns or gun parts at home. Anyone caught manufacturing or possessing a 3D-printed firearm could face federal criminal penalties. The bill also targets the distribution side—it would prohibit people from sharing digital files or blueprints that allow others to 3D print guns. This means websites, forums, or file-sharing services that host these designs could potentially face legal consequences. Licensed firearms manufacturers would still be allowed to use 3D printing technology if they comply with existing federal firearms regulations and licensing requirements.

The bill essentially extends traditional gun regulations into the digital age. Just as you currently can't legally make a gun in your garage without proper licensing, this law would specifically prevent the 3D printing workaround. Law enforcement agencies would gain tools to prosecute people manufacturing untraceable firearms at home. However, the bill doesn't affect people who own traditionally manufactured guns or those who legally purchase firearms through licensed dealers with background checks.

3D Printed Gun Safety Act of 2023

Markey, Edward J.

3D Printed Gun Safety Act of 2023This bill makes it unlawful to intentionally publish digital instructions that can automatically program a three-dimensional printer or similar device to produce or complete a firearm from an unfinished frame or receiver.