September 7, 2010

NSSF Supports ATF Modernization Act

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Legislation, “The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Reform and Firearms Modernization Act” (S. 941), strikes a fair balance between providing ATF with additional regulatory options to encourage even greater compliance short of revocation while at the same time affording licensees more rights and due process in the regulatory scheme.

The bi-partisan bill was introduced by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.). It would allow ATF new powers to issue fines and suspend licenses of federal firearms licensees (as opposed to current regulations which only allow for license revocation).

The legislation would also allow ATF to distinguish between more serious violations and “benign/administrative” violations. Furthermore, the legislation would create an appeals process, whereby FFLs would have cases heard before a neutral administrative law judge, rather than an ATF official.

NSSF is supportive of this bill as it will help protect the rights of FFLs while giving ATF more flexibility in how they exercise their regulatory authority to encourage enhanced compliance.

Companion legislation in the House was introduced by Reps. Steve King (R- Iowa) and Zack Space (D-Ohio).

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Reform and Firearms Modernization Act  has 240 co-sponsors in the House and 36 co-sponsors in the Senate.

Send a letter of support to Congress.

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Categories: Government Relations, Top Stories