3D-Printed Firearms, also called Ghost Guns, are not regulated in Pennsylvania. All other firearms have laws and regulations governing their manufacture, sale and use. Just like regular firearms, 3D-Printed guns can kill and injure. Their use in crimes in the Commonwealth is escalating quickly. The federal bureau of Alcohol Tabacco and Firearms reports that from 2017 to 2021 there was a 1,000% increase in local law enforcement reporting of ghost guns to the ATF. The Pennsylvania State Police report that the number of ghost guns seized by state and local police within the Commonwealth doubled from 2022 to 2023.

3D-printed firearms are untraceable and lack identifying features commonly found on guns, such as a serial number, making them difficult to trace when discovered at a crime scene. An individual can purchase and download a plan to print a 3-D firearm anonymously online. Criminal organizations are taking advantage of this option.

I will be introducing legislation to ensure 3D-printed firearms are treated as standard firearms under Pennsylvania’s laws and regulations. In addition, my proposal would prohibit anyone from printing a firearm without a license from the federal government to manufacture firearms. To aid law enforcement efforts to crack down on untraceable guns, our laws must apply to 3D-printed firearms. My legislation will give law enforcement one of the tools they need to protect themselves, and our communities, from gun violence.

I ask that you join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to ensure the continued safety of Pennsylvanians and to end the proliferation of untraceable firearms in our state.