Disarm Hate Act
Term Dictionary
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- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
The Disarm Hate Act bars anyone convicted of a violent misdemeanor hate crime from buying or possessing firearms under federal law.
Who wins, who loses
Wins: targets of hate violence, civil rights groups, gun-violence prevention advocates worried about repeat bias attacks.
Loses: people with bias-motivated misdemeanor records, gun rights groups who see it as expanding the federal ban list.
What it does
Amends Title 18 to add misdemeanor hate-crime convictions to firearm prohibitions in Sections 922(d) and 922(g).
Covers misdemeanors involving force or threats motivated by race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
Requires the person had counsel and a jury option, protecting due process rights.
Exempts convictions that were expunged, pardoned, or had civil rights restored.
Why should I care?
Supporters say people who commit violent hate crimes shouldn't easily access guns, citing rising attacks on LGBTQ+ and minority communities. Critics argue misdemeanors are minor offenses and lifetime gun bans go too far, raising Second Amendment concerns. The Supreme Court's Bruen decision makes new gun restrictions harder to defend. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.