Silencer Central, the nation's leading direct-to-consumer suppressor retailer, presented U.S. Senator Mike Rounds, R-S.D., with its U.S. Senator of the Year award, recognizing his leadership and service to the American people. Silencer Central founder and CEO Brandon Maddox presented the award on behalf of the company during a ceremony at its headquarters in Sioux Falls, S.D., on Aug. 17, 2026.

A Consistent Voice for Law-Abiding Gun Owners

Throughout his career in public service, Rounds has been a steady advocate for constitutional freedoms, responsible firearm ownership and the rights of law-abiding Americans. He has repeatedly backed practical, workable solutions for hunters, sportsmen, firearm owners and the businesses that serve them – an approach Silencer Central says sets him apart in Washington.

Modernizing an Outdated Process

Rounds sponsored the Modernizing Law Enforcement Notification Act (MLENA) as legislation to amend Title 18 of the United States Code. This measure was an attempt to update a decades-old firearm transfer notification process by allowing required notifications to Chief Law Enforcement Officers to be completed electronically rather than by mail – improving efficiency while keeping the process compliant with federal law.

Reducing Barriers to Hearing Protection

Rounds has also been a lead sponsor of the Hearing Protection Act (HPA), legislation intended to improve access to suppressors and support the use of hearing protection among sportsmen and firearm enthusiasts. Silencer Central credits him with working to cut unnecessary regulatory burdens on responsible firearm owners without compromising oversight.

"A Trusted Partner"

"Senator Rounds has always been willing to listen, engage, and work toward practical solutions that matter to South Dakotans and the firearm community. His leadership on issues like the Modernizing Law Enforcement Notification Act (MLENA) and his support of the Hearing Protection Act (HPA) demonstrate a commitment to responsible firearm ownership and common-sense reforms. We're proud to recognize Senator Rounds as our U.S. Senator of the Year and thank him for his service to our state and country," said Brandon Maddox, founder and CEO of Silencer Central.

To learn more about Silencer Central and its legislative advocacy, industry leadership and products, visit www.silencercentral.com. To learn more about U.S. Senator Mike Rounds, visit www.rounds.senate.gov.