H.R.129 - Abolish the ATF Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 129, the "Abolish the ATF Act," introduced in the House of Representatives on January 3, 2025, seeks to eliminate the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The bill, sponsored by Ms. Boebert, was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The bill consists of two sections: a short title and the abolishment of the ATF.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would dissolve the ATF, transferring its responsibilities (if any) to other agencies or eliminating them altogether. This could lead to changes in the enforcement of federal laws related to alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives. The exact consequences would depend on how Congress chooses to reallocate or eliminate the ATF's functions.
Potential Benefits
- Potential reduction in government spending through the elimination of the ATF's budget.
- Possible decrease in perceived federal overreach by some citizens.
- Could streamline regulatory processes related to alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives if responsibilities are transferred efficiently.
- May lead to increased individual liberty for some, particularly those who believe the ATF infringes upon Second Amendment rights.
- Could spur innovation in the private sector related to security and regulation if government oversight is reduced.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential weakening of law enforcement efforts related to alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives, potentially leading to increased crime.
- Possible loss of expertise and institutional knowledge related to these areas.
- Could create a regulatory vacuum, leading to confusion and uncertainty for businesses and individuals.
- May negatively impact public safety if the ATF's functions are not adequately transferred or replaced.
- Potential for increased illegal trafficking of alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on Congress's power to create and abolish federal agencies, as implied by Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The Second Amendment is relevant, as the ATF's regulations impact the right to bear arms. However, the Constitution does not explicitly address the existence or abolishment of specific law enforcement agencies.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).