That's after Governor Terry Branstad signed a bill that would legalize the sale, use, and ownership of gun suppressors throughout the state. Branstad said the suppressors - or silencers - will prevent hearing loss for gun users.

The American Suppressor Association says they reduce the sound of a gunshot by 20 to 35 decibels, similar to wearing ear plugs. Opponents say the use of ear protection like ear muffs are a better alternative.

Governor Branstad signed the bill at the newly-opened Brownells retail outlet in Grinnell, with supporters looking on. After the signing, he told TV9 the legalization of gun silencers in Iowa is long overdue.

Iowa State Senator Rob Hogg reacted to the bill's signing in a written statement on Thursday. "It is disappointing that Governor Branstad reversed his position from 1983 when he signed legislation designating suppressors as dangerous weapons. As a state and as a country, we need to be acting to reduce gun violence, not promoting dangerous gun accessories."