How S 4553 changes current law

Compared against current U.S. Code AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

The bill establishes a ban on the purchase, ownership, or possession of enhanced body armor by civilians and defines enhanced body armor in existing law.

• 18 U.S.C. § 921

  `(39) The term `enhanced body armor' means body armor, including a helmet or shield, the ballistic resistance of which meets or exceeds the ballistic performance of RF1 armor, determined using such standard as the National Institute of Justice has in effect at the time at which a person purchases, owns, or possesses such armor.`

  A definition of 'enhanced body armor' is added to existing law.

• 18 U.S.C. § 924

  `(9) Whoever knowingly violates section 935 shall be fined under this title, imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.`

  A penalty for violating the new ban on enhanced body armor is established.

• 18 U.S.C. § 44

  `Sec. 935. Ban on purchase, ownership, or possession of enhanced body armor by civilians (a) Definition.--In this section, the term 'covered law enforcement officer'-- (1) has the meaning given the term 'qualified law enforcement officer' in section 926B and the term 'qualified retired law enforcement officer' in section 926C; and (2) includes corrections officers. (b) Prohibition.--Except as provided in subsection (c), it shall be unlawful for a person to purchase, own, or possess enhanced body armor. (c) Exceptions.--Subsection (b) shall not apply to-- (1) a purchase, ownership, or possession by or under the authority of-- (A) the United States or any department or agency of the United States; (B) a State, or a department, agency, or political subdivision of a State; or (C) a Tribe or law enforcement agency of a Tribe; (2) a covered law enforcement officer; or (3) enhanced body armor that was lawfully possessed by any person before the date of enactment of this section.`

  A new section is added that prohibits civilians from purchasing, owning, or possessing enhanced body armor, with specific exceptions.

• 18 U.S.C. § 44

  `The table of sections for chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: `935. Ban on purchase, ownership, or possession of enhanced body armor by civilians.`

  The table of sections for chapter 44 is updated to include the new section regarding enhanced body armor.