Stop Arming Cartels Act of 2025

The Stop Arming Cartels Act of 2025 would prohibit civilians from importing, selling, manufacturing, transferring, or possessing rifles capable of firing .50 caliber ammunition. The bill would allow government agencies to continue using these weapons and would grandfather in rifles lawfully owned before the law takes effect. Owners of existing .50 caliber rifles would need to register them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record within 12 months at no cost, and registration information could not be used against them in criminal proceedings for prior violations.

The bill also includes additional provisions to combat firearms trafficking. It would prohibit the sale of firearms to individuals designated as significant foreign narcotics traffickers under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act and would add these designations to the background check system. The bill would create an exception to the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, allowing civil lawsuits against gun manufacturers or sellers who knowingly sell firearms to designated foreign criminals. Supporters argue the measure would reduce the flow of high-powered weapons to criminal organizations in Mexico, Haiti, and other countries that fuel violence and drug trafficking. The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.