take proactive action to regulate the use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) to produce "open source firearms."

Modestly-priced devices utilizing 3D printing or additive manufacturing can create items "out of thin air" with increasing sophistication. These devices are already capable of producing industrial spare parts, and first efforts to manufacture firearms, parts and clips have already been reported. Once this technology is established, a 3D fabrication file can be distributed to produce and replicate working weapons and parts. This emerging technology should be examined and effectively regulated, either by banning certain items (in the interest of public welfare and safety) or by embededing licensing and/or tracking algorithms within the production files. It is imperative to anticipate the implications of this new technology and apply equally sophisticated technology to control the process.