Fifth Circuit Nixes Texas Suit Over Federal Silencer Rules (2)

The State of Texas doesn’t have standing to challenge federal regulations on possessing gun silencers, the Fifth Circuit ruled Friday.

The appeals court concluded that Texas, and three individuals, hadn’t shown they have the requisite injury to bring a pre-enforcement constitutional challenge to enjoin federal regulations on suppressors, which are meant to dull the noise of a gunshot.

The legal fight began after the Texas Legislature in 2021 passed a bill declaring that certain firearm silencers aren’t covered by federal law, and directing the state attorney general to seek a court order declaring that suppressors made for noncommercial use and ...