PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime and Criminal Justice.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Mar 10, 1994
Gun Dealer Responsibility Act of 1994 - Authorizes any person suffering bodily injury or death as a result of the discharge of a firearm to bring an action in any U.S. district court against any dealer who transferred the firearm to a person in violation of Federal firearms provisions for damages and such other relief as the court deems appropriate. Directs the court to allow a prevailing plaintiff a reasonable attorney fee as part of the costs. Provides that the defendant in such an action shall be held liable in tort, without regard to fault or proof of defect, for all direct and consequential damages that arise from bodily injury or death proximately resulting from the illegal sale of a firearm if it is established by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant transferred the firearm to any person in violation of Federal firearms provisions. Makes exceptions where it is established by a preponderance of the evidence that: (1) the plaintiff suffered the injury while committing a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year; or (2) the injury was suffered as a result of the discharge by a law enforcement officer or a member of the armed forces in the performance of official duties. Specifies that this Act shall not be construed to limit the scope of any other cause of action available to a person injured as a result of the discharge of a firearm.
People & committees
Rep. Reed, Jack [D-RI-2] · D–RI
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime and Criminal Justice.
Referred to the House Committee on Judiciary.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E406)
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Aug 26, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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