Buckeye Reporter

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has recently introduced a new rule under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, causing concern among Second Amendment advocates. The rule, titled “Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Conforming Regulations,” aims to supplement existing federal gun control regulations in accordance with the BSCA.

According to the National Rifle Association (NRA), the ATF's latest rulemaking is being met with skepticism regarding its necessity and compliance with legal requirements. The NRA states, "The Biden administration has repeatedly deflected criticisms about its overreaches under the BSCA by primly claiming that it is merely performing its duty of executing a law passed by Congress."

The ATF is justifying its rule as a "non-controversial" incorporation of statutory provisions, allowing it to bypass certain administrative procedures. The agency has provided a 30-day comment period, ending on May 20, 2024, before the rule takes effect on July 18, 2024. However, the NRA encourages individuals to submit comments raising concerns about potential deviations from the underlying statutes or flaws in the rulemaking process.

The NRA's ongoing analysis of the rule has identified instances where the ATF's regulations differ from the BSCA, potentially leading to confusion and misapplication of the law. The NRA highlights the importance of vigilance in monitoring the implementation of the BSCA and any related rulemaking, as the Biden administration continues its efforts to tighten gun control measures.

Individuals are urged to submit comments on the ATF's new rule electronically through the Federal eRulemaking portal or by mail. The NRA will continue to provide updates on the BSCA and related developments, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance to protect the rights of gun owners and businesses in the firearm industry.

In conclusion, the ATF's introduction of the new gun control rule under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act has sparked concerns within the Second Amendment advocate community. Vigilance and active engagement in the comment period are essential to ensure that any potential flaws or deviations in the rule are addressed and rectified.