The owner of a local outdoor shop in Bellefonte, Thomas Engle, supports the Biden administration's efforts to close the "gun show loophole" and expand background checks for firearm purchases, stating that it puts everyone "on equal footing." He emphasizes that at gun shows, people could buy and sell without licenses and insurances, while his shop conducts background checks and only sells to law-abiding citizens, stressing that background checks do not equate to registration.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has proposed a new rule to close the "gun show loophole" by increasing the requirements to obtain a federal firearms license (FFL) for gun sellers. The proposed rule aims to regulate the market more effectively by defining those "engaged in the business" of firearms dealing more specifically. It clarifies that firearm dealing requiring a license and background checks extends beyond brick-and-mortar stores to include gun shows, flea markets, mail order, and online sales. Gun rights groups criticize the proposal, while gun control advocates see it as fulfilling the Biden administration's promises to expand background checks and keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous individuals. The public will have 90 days to comment on the proposed rule.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has proposed rules that would require individuals selling firearms online, at gun shows, and in other informal venues to obtain a federal license and conduct background checks on potential buyers. The rules aim to close the "gun show loophole" and expand the scope of who is legally required to conduct background checks on gun buyers. The proposed rules, which are based on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act signed by President Biden in June 2022, would require most people profiting from gun sales to obtain a license. The rules will be finalized after a 90-day public comment period and could face legal challenges.
