The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced that gun owners are no longer required to federally register or seek approval to manufacture or transfer certain firearms and accessories. This includes silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and ‘Any Other Weapons’ (AOWs). The policy change follows a federal court decision affecting the National Firearms Act (NFA).
ATF Director Robert Cekada explained that the adjustment aligns with a court decision that invalidated key NFA provisions. He stated, “The direction from the President, Congress, and the courts is clear. ATF is now following suit with our enforcement posture while continuing to ensure we remain focused where we are needed the most: combatting violent crime in American communities.”
This change arose after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, reducing NFA-related taxes to $0 for specified firearms and accessories. A federal judge in Texas issued an injunction, leading to the suspension of registration and transfer requirements nationwide. However, background checks under the Gun Control Act remain mandatory.
John Commerford of the National Rifle Association (NRA) welcomed the policy as a constitutional victory. The announcement means the federal government will stop imposing special permissions for ownership of certain firearms and accessories on law-abiding citizens.
Despite this regulatory shift, machine guns and destructive devices still require compliance with NFA rules. Also, federal approval is needed for transporting short-barreled rifles and shotguns across state lines. The ATF continues to accept voluntary registrations, noting that legal changes could renew previous regulations.
Leave a Reply