On August 5, 2026, a federal judge in Texas ruled that the National Firearms Act’s registration requirements are unconstitutional for certain firearms whose NFA tax has been reduced to $0. This ruling was thanks to GOA’s historic “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit.” 

Since then, we’ve received thousands of questions about what the ruling means for gun owners. Here are the answers we have right now to some of the most common questions. 

Important: DOJ and ATF have not yet issued guidance explaining how they will implement the ruling. This situation is rapidly evolving, and this information is not legal advice. Consult an attorney before taking any action. 

• Am I covered if I’m a GOA member? 

GOA’s reading of the court’s order is yes. The judge’s injunction protects the plaintiffs and, where applicable, their current and future members and customers. 

However, exactly what members can do under the ruling remains unclear until DOJ and ATF provide guidance. 

• Does the ruling apply nationwide? 

The injunction applies to the plaintiffs and the members and customers covered by the court’s order. 

Plaintiffs: 

• • Gun Owners of America 

• • Gun Owners Foundation 

• • Silencer Shop Foundation 

• • B&T USA 

• • Palmetto State Armory 

• • SilencerCo 

• • Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition 

• • Brady Wetz 

However, state and local laws may impose additional restrictions, so gun owners should consult an attorney. 

• Can I buy a suppressor without NFA paperwork? 

DOJ has not yet issued guidance on what paperwork will be required. 

GOA is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as soon as official guidance becomes available. 

• Can I buy an SBR or SBS without NFA paperwork? 

The court struck down the NFA’s registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, and suppressors. However, the government has not yet explained what the acquisition process will look like going forward. 

Do not assume a particular transaction is lawful without consulting an attorney. 

• What NFA rules are still in effect? 

The ruling struck down the registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, and suppressors, but other NFA provisions may remain in effect. 

DOJ will need to provide further clarity on how the remaining provisions apply. 

• What happens next? 

The Trump Administration has reportedly indicated that it will not appeal the ruling, though the government still has time to do so. 

GOA is also pushing for DOJ to take the additional step of extending this victory to all Americans, rather than only those covered by the injunction. 

• How do I know if I’m a GOA member? 

You can check your status through the GOA Member Portal. 

If your account appears blank, that does not mean your membership is inactive. GOA is currently transferring existing membership information to the new system, and that process may take a couple of weeks. 

If you are not already a GOA member, join today at GunOwners.org. 

We will continue providing updates as DOJ and ATF release more information.