H.R.2618 - Federal Firearm Licensee Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2618, the Federal Firearm Licensee Act, aims to modernize the regulation of firearm sales by amending Title 18 of the United States Code. The bill introduces several key changes, including enhanced security measures for licensed firearm dealers, stricter inventory controls, and increased oversight by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). It also seeks to repeal certain limitations on the ATF's authority, such as those imposed by the Tiahrt Amendments.
Furthermore, the bill expands background check requirements, mandates electronic record-keeping, and increases penalties for violations of firearm laws. It also introduces regulations for facilitators of firearm transfers and requires dealers to provide safety devices and warnings to purchasers.
Finally, the bill addresses issues such as multiple firearm sales, default transfers, and the reporting of lost or stolen firearms, with the goal of reducing gun violence and improving public safety.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would significantly increase the regulatory burden on licensed firearm dealers. It would also enhance the ATF's ability to monitor and enforce firearm laws. The intended effect is to reduce the diversion of firearms to criminals and improve overall public safety by holding dealers more accountable for their sales practices and security measures.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security measures at licensed firearm dealer premises, potentially reducing theft and illegal diversion of firearms.
- Improved record-keeping and reporting requirements, aiding law enforcement in tracing firearms used in crimes.
- Increased oversight and inspections of firearm dealers, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
- Mandatory safety devices and warnings to purchasers, promoting responsible gun ownership.
- Regulation of firearm transfer facilitators, closing loopholes in existing laws.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for licensed firearm dealers due to enhanced security and compliance requirements, potentially impacting small businesses.
- More stringent licensing and renewal processes, possibly creating delays and administrative burdens.
- Potential for increased government intrusion into the operations of licensed firearm dealers.
- Concerns about data privacy related to electronic record-keeping and video surveillance.
- Possible challenges to Second Amendment rights due to stricter regulations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. The Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms, but this right is not unlimited. The Supreme Court has acknowledged the government's power to regulate firearm sales to some extent.
The bill's provisions, such as enhanced background checks and security measures, could be seen as reasonable regulations that do not infringe on the Second Amendment. However, some provisions, such as increased penalties and stricter licensing requirements, could face legal challenges if they are deemed overly burdensome or infringe on individual rights.
Additionally, the repeal of certain limitations on the ATF's authority raises concerns about potential government overreach and the protection of individual privacy rights.
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).