Removing Restrictions on ATF: Enhancing Gun Tracing and Dealer Accountability.
This legislation removes long-standing restrictions that have hindered law enforcement, such as the ATF, from accessing critical firearms data and enforcing safety laws effectively. The changes allow for the centralization of gun sales records and eliminate the requirement to destroy instant background check data within 24 hours. Consequently, law enforcement gains more tools to trace illegal firearms and hold non-compliant dealers accountable, potentially enhancing public safety.
Key points
Law enforcement gains full access to firearms trace data, making it easier to identify the sources of crime guns.
The requirement to destroy instant background check (NICS) records within 24 hours is eliminated, allowing for longer data retention.
Oversight of licensed firearms dealers is strengthened: the standard for license revocation is lowered from "willful" to "knowing" violation, and inspection frequency limits are removed.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_118
Sponsor: Sen. Van Hollen, Chris [D-MD]
Process start date: 2023-01-26