California bill would require 3-D printers to block gun-part designs

A California bill would require all 3-D printers sold in the state to include software that blocks the creation of firearm parts. The measure passed the Assembly in May and is moving through the Senate. ” Federal data cited in the coverage show recoveries of privately made firearms rose from more than 1,600 in 2017 to nearly 27,500 in 2023, with California recording the highest totals.

effects studios and manufacturers Legacy Effects lab manager Samuel McBride said the same printers used for film props would be affected, because no machines are sold exclusively to entertainment companies. Co-founder Alan Scott said 3-D printing is now essential to meeting tighter production schedules.

Prusa Research head of public affairs Jakub Kmošek stated that an algorithm cannot distinguish between a gun barrel and a piece of pipe. A June 1 letter signed by Prusa and other firms argued the bill raises First Amendment concerns and would hinder repair and innovation.

enforcement concerns Opponents also cite surveillance risks.

David Tobin, who leads a coalition of 3-D printing users, said the software would require consumer tools to examine designs before printing. McBride noted that Legacy Effects already routes files through encrypted servers to protect studio intellectual property.

Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, the bill’s author, added an exemption for printers sold only to stagecraft and prop studios. McBride said the exemption would not apply because such specialized machines do not exist. Everytown for Gun Safety policy advocate Krystal LoPilato said similar legislation passed in New York and that the California measure is meant to address rising recoveries of 3-D-printed firearms in major cities.