ATF Transparency Act
ATF Transparency Act
Plain Language Summary
# ATF Transparency Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The ATF Transparency Act would change how the federal government processes applications for restricted firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act—including machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, and silencers. Currently, the government can take indefinite time to approve or deny these applications.
Under this bill, if the government hasn't denied an application within 90 days, the transfer or manufacturing would be automatically approved. The bill also creates a process for people to appeal denied applications and requires the government to report on background checks that remain unresolved after 90 days. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would primarily affect gun owners and manufacturers seeking to legally transfer or manufacture restricted firearms, as well as federal agencies (particularly the ATF and FBI) that process these applications and conduct background checks. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Russ Fulcher (R-ID) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.
CRS Official Summary
ATF Transparency ActThis bill modifies procedural requirements related to the transfer or making of firearms that are subject to regulation under the National Firearms Act (e.g., machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, and silencers).The bill permits the transfer of a firearm if 90 days have elapsed since the application to transfer the firearm was filed, and the application has not been denied. Additionally, the bill establishes an administrative relief process with respect to an application to transfer that is denied.The bill permits the making of a firearm if 90 days have elapsed since the application to make the firearm was filed, and the application has not been denied.Finally, the bill requires reports on firearms-related background check inquiries that remain unresolved after 90 days and the percentage of firearms-related background check inquiries related to the transfer of a firearm that were administered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.