H.R. 5087 (Assault Weapons Ban)

H.R. 5087, the Assault Weapons Ban, was proposed legislation designed to restrict the sale, transfer, and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms classified as assault weapons. The bill aimed to reduce gun violence by limiting access to weapons capable of rapid fire, often associated with mass shootings. It defined specific models and features that would be prohibited and established penalties for violations. The legislation also included provisions for grandfathering existing weapons, allowing owners to retain previously owned guns. Its purpose was to enhance public safety while balancing individual rights, though it faced debates over effectiveness and definitions of firearms.