Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.613 - ATF Transparency Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R. 613, the ATF Transparency Act, aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to improve the process for firearm transfer and registration. It requires the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to establish an administrative relief process for individuals whose firearm transfer applications are denied. The bill also sets a 90-day deadline for the ATF to process applications, after which the application is deemed approved.

Expected Effects

The bill will likely lead to a more streamlined and transparent process for firearm transfers and registrations. Individuals denied transfers would have an avenue for appeal and the ability to correct erroneous information. The 90-day processing deadline could reduce delays and backlogs within the ATF.

Potential Benefits

  • Provides an administrative relief process for denied firearm transfer applications.
  • Allows applicants to appeal denials and correct erroneous information.
  • Reimbursement of attorney fees for successful appeals.
  • Sets a 90-day deadline for processing applications, reducing delays.
  • Requires reports and agreements to improve NICS inquiry administration.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May increase the administrative burden on the ATF.
  • Could potentially lead to the approval of firearm transfers to individuals who should be denied if the 90-day deadline is strictly enforced.
  • The cost of reimbursing attorney fees for successful appeals could be significant.
  • Requires additional reporting and inter-agency coordination, which may divert resources.
  • May not fully address the underlying issues causing NICS delays.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill potentially aligns with the Second Amendment by aiming to streamline the process for legal firearm transfers. By providing an appeals process for denied applications, it reinforces due process, which is protected by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments. The emphasis on timely processing also aligns with the concept of efficient governance, as outlined in the Constitution's preamble.

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).