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GOA Condemns Biden ATF’s Move to Implement Backdoor Universal Background Checks

Written by Walter Smoloski Published: 31 August 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 31, 2023

Washington, D.C. — Today, the Biden ATF formally rolled out their plans to implement backdoor universal background checks, which was made possible by Senator John Cornyn’s “compromise” legislation passed last summer.

Under this newly proposed rule, any individual who sells even a single firearm for any profit, to any person including family could be classified as “Engaged in the Business” of selling firearms, and in turn, they would be forced to get a federal license, conduct a background check, and complete gun registration paperwork under federal law.  This will further enhance the ATF’s illegal gun registry and will make it much harder for private individuals to sell guns—effectively forcing them to either become a gun dealer or take time off work to coordinate trips (with potential gun buyers) to find a gun store. Further complicating matters is the fact that the ATF has currently adopted a Zero Tolerance policy that is driving numerous gun dealers out of business for mere clerical errors.

Erich Pratt, GOA’s Senior Vice President, issued the following statement:        

“First, they said five guns, but now, anyone who sells a single firearm in a given year and makes even a penny of profit will be subject to dealer requirements, including a background check. People need to realize this is just the next step in the anti-gunners’ longform playbook to enact backdoor universal registration of firearms, and eventually, to confiscate all firearms. They will not stop until that day.”  

Aidan Johnston, GOA’s Director of Federal Affairs, added: 

“This is just the latest consequence of Compromise Cornyn’s gun control law, and sadly, Lord knows more is still on the horizon. We urge all lawmakers to defund this rule the upcoming appropriations bill and join us in the fight to repeal this dangerous and unconstitutional legislation with the Congressional Review Act.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews.  Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center.

-GOA-