As an attorney practicing in Minneapolis, Minnesota, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes in federal regulations regarding firearms. One recent development that has caught the attention of many in the legal community is the new federal rule on “ghost guns” issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on April 26, 2022.
So what are ghost guns, and what does this new rule mean for gun owners and sellers in Minnesota and across the country? Simply put, a ghost gun is a firearm that is assembled from parts that do not have serial numbers or other identifying markings, making it difficult or impossible to trace. These parts can be purchased online or at gun shows without a background check or other regulations that apply to completed firearms.
The new ATF rule aims to address this loophole by reclassifying certain unfinished gun parts as firearms themselves, subject to the same regulations as completed firearms. Specifically, the rule defines a firearm as any combination of parts that can be assembled into a finished product that can fire a shot, regardless of whether the parts are complete or partially complete.
This means that anyone who sells, manufactures, or imports these unfinished parts will be subject to federal firearms regulations, including background checks, age requirements, and record-keeping requirements. The rule also requires individuals who own or make their own ghost guns to apply for a serial number from the ATF and to mark the gun with that number.
As with any new regulation, there are likely to be some questions and challenges as gun owners and sellers adjust to the new requirements. However, it is important to note that this rule does not ban the sale or ownership of ghost guns outright, but rather aims to close the loophole that allows them to be bought and sold without regulation.
For gun owners and sellers in Minnesota, it is important to understand how this new rule may impact your operations and to ensure that you are in compliance with federal regulations. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding firearms and ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and your business.
Overall, the new ATF rule on ghost guns represents an important step in addressing the issue of untraceable firearms, which have been used in a number of high-profile crimes in recent years. By closing this loophole and subjecting unfinished gun parts to federal regulations, the rule aims to improve public safety and ensure that firearms are used responsibly and legally.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.