In a move jointly celebrated this summer by Vermont hunters, gun owners who appreciate quiet shooting and the American Suppressor Association (ASA), Governor Phil Scott (R-VT) signed House Bill 878 into law, permanently legalizing the use of suppressors while hunting in Vermont. This historic move removes the two-year sunset provision initially placed in Senate Bill 281, which temporarily allowed suppressors for hunting purposes since 2022. Now, hunters in the Green Mountain State can protect their hearing in the field without fear of losing this right.

The push for this legislation was led by Representative Pat Brennan (R-Chittenden-9-2), a longtime advocate for suppressor rights. Brennan’s dedication to the cause dates back to 2015 when he was pivotal in legalizing suppressor ownership in Vermont. His efforts, alongside those of Representative George Till (D-Chittenden-3), culminated in the 2022 temporary authorization of suppressors for hunting, a provision that has now been made permanent.

“Working with Representative Brennan over the past twelve years has truly been one of the greatest privileges and honors of my career,” said Knox Williams, executive director of the ASA. “His tireless work and unwavering dedication is the reason why law-abiding citizens in the Green Mountain State no longer have to choose between jeopardizing their hearing and exercising their Second Amendment rights. What he was able to accomplish is nothing short of extraordinary. The suppressor community, as well as the people of Vermont, will forever be in his debt.”

The ASA, founded in 2011, has been instrumental in advocating for suppressor rights across the United States. Their efforts have led to the legalization of suppressors in three states and the approval of their use while hunting in 19 states. The ASA’s mission to promote suppressor ownership as “the hearing protection of the 21st century” has seen numerous successes, including the defeat of several state-level bans and significant improvements to transfer times under the National Firearms Act.

With the enactment of House Bill 878, Vermont joins 40 other states in allowing the use of suppressors while hunting. This milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Vermont Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and the ASA.

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