Protecting Privacy in Purchases Act

# Protecting Privacy in Purchases Act - Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would prevent credit card companies and payment networks (like Visa and Mastercard) from using special merchant codes that single out gun stores separately from other retailers. Currently, these networks can assign different codes to firearms dealers versus general retail stores, which some argue allows tracking of gun purchases. The bill aims to stop this practice and requires the Department of Justice to enforce the law and report annually on any investigations. **Who it affects:** Gun store owners, credit card companies, payment networks, and consumers who purchase firearms.

The bill could also impact banks and financial institutions that process these transactions, as well as law enforcement agencies involved in enforcement. **Key provisions:** The main provision prohibits merchant codes that distinguish firearms retailers from other types of retailers. The DOJ enforcement requirement means the government must actively investigate violations and publish yearly reports on cases and findings. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee (HR 1181, 119th Congress), meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Riley Moore, a Republican from West Virginia.