ATF Modernization: Removing Restrictions on Gun Crime Tracing and Dealer Oversight
This bill eliminates long-standing legislative restrictions that have hampered the ATF's ability to trace crime guns, regulate licensed dealers, and share critical data. The changes aim to strengthen law enforcement's capacity to combat illegal gun trafficking, potentially enhancing public safety. For citizens, this means faster tracing of firearms used in crimes and stricter accountability for non-compliant gun dealers.
Key points
ATF gains full access to firearms trace data, allowing better analysis of gun crime patterns and sources of illegal weapons.
Revoking dealer licenses becomes easier: the legal standard for violations changes from 'willful' (intentional) to 'knowing' (aware of the conduct).
The requirement to destroy instant background check (NICS) records within 24 hours is eliminated, potentially aiding criminal investigations.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_3212
Sponsor: Sen. Van Hollen, Chris [D-MD]