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Pennsylvania House Rejects Ban on Machine-Gun Conversion Devices After Bitter Floor Clash

A one-vote defeat under a razor-thin majority leaves the measure’s future uncertain.

Overview

  • The proposal to outlaw so-called Glock switches failed 101–102, with Democrat Frank Burns joining all Republicans to block it.
  • A shouting confrontation followed Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta’s remarks, prompting the Speaker to clear the aisles and warn that threats could be criminal.
  • Sponsor Rep. Mandy Steele cited the 2023 killing of Brackenridge Police Chief Justin McIntire and said police want a state-level prohibition.
  • Opponents, including Rep. Bryan Cutler, criticized the bill’s definition as ambiguous and potentially sweeping in bump stocks, raising legal risks.
  • Federal law already restricts such devices, but Pennsylvania lacks a specific ban and police report rising use of 3D‑printed switches in crimes; the House returns Monday after an adjournment to cool tensions.