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Ban on Civilian Possession of High-Level Ballistic Body Armor

This law establishes a federal ban on the purchase, ownership, or possession of "enhanced body armor" (Type III ballistic resistance or higher) by the general public. The goal is to restrict civilian access to military-grade protective gear often used in serious crimes. Violating this ban is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Key points
Civilians are prohibited from buying or owning body armor that meets or exceeds Type III ballistic standards.
This restriction applies to vests, helmets, and shields that offer high-level protection.
Law enforcement officers (including corrections officers) and government agencies are exempt from the ban.
Armor legally owned before the law takes effect is protected by a grandfather clause.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8388
Sponsor: Rep. Meng, Grace [D-NY-6]
Process start date: 2024-05-14
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Aaron Salter, Jr., Responsible Body Armor Possession Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_8388.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-05-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Civilians are prohibited from buying or owning body armor that meets or exceeds Type III ballistic standards.
  • This restriction applies to vests, helmets, and shields that offer high-level protection.
  • Law enforcement officers (including corrections officers) and government agencies are exempt from the ban.
  • Armor legally owned before the law takes effect is protected by a grandfather clause.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Meng, Grace [D-NY-6].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

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Security Courts and Law