Lawmakers spar over gun silencer bill

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Democrats are voicing opposition to a Republican measure that would ease restrictions on the purchase of gun silencers.

The Hill reports the measure from Republican Rep. Jeff Duncan is part of the broader Sportsmen's Heritage and Recreational Enhancement Act, aimed at broadening public access to federal lands for hunting and fishing.

Duncan and other Republicans say the measure would help protect hunters against hearing loss.

But Democrat Rep. Jimmy Gomez and other Democrats said silencers muffle the distinctive sounds of a gun, making them into “weapons of war.”

Duncan’s Hearing Protection Act has the backing of the NRA, the country’s most powerful gun rights group.

Corrie O'Connor