Buckeye Reporter

ATF Director Steven Dettelbach expressed his concerns about the ongoing distrust towards the ATF and the federal government in relation to firearms legislation. Dettelbach highlighted the challenges faced in addressing gun violence, stating, “we’ve had a very serious gun crime problem,” and noting the need for effective solutions.

Regarding the false narrative that firearms are the leading cause of death among children, Dettelbach acknowledged the misinformation, stating, “The leading cause of death of children in the United States is firearms violence, right,” but this claim has been debunked by various sources including The Washington Post.

Dettelbach also emphasized the importance of differing ideas and perspectives in addressing the issue of gun violence, noting that there are various approaches that can be considered. He mentioned the need for collaboration between organizations like NSSF and ATF to tackle illegal firearm activities.

Despite advocating for universal background checks, Dettelbach acknowledged the challenges in implementing such measures due to concerns about privacy and government overreach. He recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to improve the current situation.

The article also highlighted the reasons behind Congress's reluctance to entrust the Biden administration with decisions regarding Second Amendment rights. Recent incidents, such as the violation of private banking records and attempts to restrict firearm exports, have contributed to the skepticism towards government actions in this area.

Furthermore, the article pointed out ATF's efforts to redefine regulations related to firearms, including the controversial rules on "engaged-in-the-business" and the ban on bump stocks, which have faced legal challenges for potentially exceeding ATF's authority.

In conclusion, the article emphasized the existing distrust towards the federal government and ATF regarding Second Amendment rights, citing past instances of government overreach and questionable actions. The importance of upholding constitutional rights while addressing the issue of gun violence was underscored throughout the piece.