The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has proposed a new regulation that may allow consumers to buy firearms online without visiting their local Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). This could lead to tensions between online retailers and consumers.
This proposal, announced on May 8, updates the rules concerning “off-the-counter” sales by FFLs. The ATF aims to adapt its regulations to technological advancements since the 1993 Brady Act, which permitted online purchasing and remote processing of Form 4473 and the National Instant Check System (NICS). The changes have stirred conflict, especially with one online retailer and various self-identified “small” FFLs worried about the impact on their businesses.
A gun rights advocate remarked that enabling remote completion of transactions could benefit legal buyers who have difficulty accessing stores, whether due to distance, mobility issues, or unreliable transportation. They suggested that current limitations on remote verification need to be relaxed.
However, the commenter emphasized that remote transactions should complement, not replace, traditional in-person interactions at FFL locations.
One business that could benefit from this rule change is GrabAGun.com. A representative expressed support for the proposed regulation, noting that it could simplify the purchasing process for various buyers. They acknowledged that this is just the initial stage of a lengthy rulemaking process and that background checks will still be a requirement.
Nonetheless, smaller FFLs have expressed concerns about the potential consequences for their operations. One FFL owner stated that the changes could nearly devastate his business, given the current climate of identity theft and advancements in AI that could jeopardize secure transactions.
Others voiced similar worries, suggesting the new regulations could severely limit customer interactions and hurt business relationships, making it harder for small operations to thrive.
Interestingly, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has refrained from taking a definitive stance on these proposed changes. Among the public comments received, opinions were mixed, with some seeing value in the updates and others opposing them, especially from those who generally resist Second Amendment rights.
Conversely, some smaller FFLs supported the proposal, believing it would improve customer service and ease transactions, particularly in more accessible regions.
Comments on the proposed rule can be submitted until August 6 through Regulations.gov.
