The Equal Shot Act (S.2562) responds to concerns of politically-motivated discrimination against gun-related businesses under the Biden administration and seeks to ensure all eligible small businesses receive fair, unbiased treatment. 

S.2562 would prohibit the SBA Administrator from adopting any policy, practice, guidance, or directive that would restrict a firearm entity, affiliate, or trade association from applying for financial assistance under the Small Business Act or Small Business Investment Act, including loans or loan guarantees.

In Favor

This bill comes as a response to concerns that, under the Biden Administration, federal agencies or financial institutions may have denied support or imposed restrictions on gun-related businesses for political or ideological reasons. This legislation aims to ensure that all eligible small businesses, regardless of industry, are treated fairly and without bias.

“It’s high time we codify protections against discrimination for firearm manufacturers and related businesses.  Gun owners and the small businesses that support them have faced dark years.  It started with Operation Choke Point, an Obama initiative that pressured financial institutions to cut off services to lawful firearm-related businesses, and it continued under the last administration, which weaponized policies restricting Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens,” Senator Hyde-Smith (R-MS) said.  “The SBA needs to course correct and again be willing to support small manufacturers of firearms, shooting ranges, or other small businesses associated with the time-honored right to bear arms.”

Opponents argue that by mandating equal treatment for all eligible small businesses, including those in the firearms industry, the Act could prevent agencies from addressing public safety concerns or enforcing regulations tailored to high-risk sectors. It also politicizes routine decision-making processes, potentially allowing gun-related businesses to claim bias whenever they are subject to scrutiny or denied access based on objective criteria. Rather than promoting fairness, the Act could tie the hands of regulators and financial institutions, prioritizing political messaging over responsible governance.

Should Congress pass S.2562, the Equal Shot Act?