Gun buyback programs purchase privately-owned firearms to help make homes safe from gun accidents, and reduce the chance these weapons could be stolen in burglaries or otherwise lost. These programs are operated by both police and private parties. Studies show our nation has by far the largest number of legally owned firearms in the world - 400 million guns for a population of 330 million people. At least 100 people including 10 children are killed with firearms each day. Guns are used to kill more than 90% of all police officers murdered in the line of duty. More than $4 billion is spent each year on gun-related medical costs. Supporters claim gun buyback programs are successful in reducing the number of these tragedies. However, recent studies have questioned whether gun buyback programs are effective in lowering the number of guns in the communities they serve. Some studies have found there are just too many weapons in circulation for a difference to be made by removing a few. Undeterred, gun buyback supporters say that a life could be spared with “each gun, each bullet” that is removed from circulation.

Pending Legislation: H.R.1361 - Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act of 2023
Sponsor: Rep. Donald Payne (NJ)
Status: House Committee on the Judiciary
Chair: Rep. Jim Jordan (OH)