JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — State Rep. Mike Costlow is asking Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway to provide guidance and clarity on the impact of a recent federal court ruling concerning the National Firearms Act.
The ruling follows changes Congress made last year eliminating the $200 tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns and certain other firearms covered by the NFA. A federal district court in Texas subsequently ruled that the federal government could no longer rely on Congress’ taxing authority to require registration of those items. However, the ruling only prevents enforcement against the plaintiffs who brought the lawsuit.
Costlow said the limited scope of the ruling has created uncertainty for Missouri firearm manufacturers, dealers and consumers, and some businesses may be reluctant to sell affected items until they receive clearer guidance.
“”Right now, Missouri gun owners and businesses are being left without a clear answer about what this ruling means for them,” Costlow, R-Dardenne Prairie, said. “Missouri businesses should not have to choose between losing economic opportunities and risking federal enforcement while this issue works its way through the courts. An opinion from our Attorney General can help Missourians better understand where the law currently stands and what this ruling means for them.”
Costlow was joined by several House colleagues in submitting the request for an Attorney General opinion.
Representative Mike Costlow, a Republican, proudly represents part of St. Charles County (District 108) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2024.