Microstamping is a process in which lasers put a distinctive mark on a weapon’s firing pin. That mark is then etched into each cartridge casing when the gun is fired. Supporters including police and prosecutors say it could help them better match shell casings to a given weapon.

But the plan has opponents too, including representatives of gun manufacturers who question whether the stamps couldn’t be tampered with by criminals.

Others say they fear it would add to the cost of weapons, although proponents say microstamping would add a few dollars at most.