The Biden administration has announced a new rule that will require thousands more firearms dealers across the U.S. to run background checks on buyers, even when selling at gun shows or other places outside traditional stores. This rule is aimed at closing a loophole that has allowed unlicensed dealers to sell tens of thousands of guns each year without conducting background checks. The administration hopes that this will help combat the issue of gun violence, especially as it has become a major concern for many Americans, particularly younger voters. President Joe Biden has called for Congress to pass universal background checks legislation to further address this issue, emphasizing the importance of saving lives.
The rule, finalized this week, states that anyone selling firearms primarily to earn a profit must be federally licensed and conduct background checks, regardless of where the sale takes place. The administration sees this as a necessary step in curtailing gun violence and preventing firearms from getting into the hands of domestic abusers and felons. However, as with any gun control measure, this rule is likely to face criticism from gun rights advocates who believe it infringes upon Second Amendment rights. The Biden administration has made gun violence prevention a priority, and this new rule is part of its broader efforts to address this issue.
The new rule is a result of the passage of a bipartisan gun violence bill in response to a tragic school shooting in Texas. The legislation expanded the definition of those considered to be “engaged in the business” of selling firearms, thereby requiring them to be licensed and conduct background checks. The rule will affect thousands of dealers who previously avoided these requirements by claiming they were not in the business of selling guns. The ATF has released data showing that illegally trafficked firearms often come through unlicensed dealers who do not perform background checks, resulting in numerous shootings.
Gun control advocates have praised the new rule as a significant step toward achieving universal background checks for gun buyers, a goal that has been stymied by Republican opposition in Congress. The regulation has been hailed as a victory for safer communities, thanks to the efforts of grassroots movements. However, it is expected that the rule will face legal challenges from gun rights activists who believe it violates the Second Amendment. The National Shooting Sports Foundation has previously indicated that they may challenge the rule in court if necessary, but the Biden administration remains confident that the rule will withstand any legal challenges.
The implementation of this new rule comes amid ongoing efforts to address gun violence in the U.S. The Biden administration has made gun control a key part of its agenda, creating the White House office of gun violence prevention and pushing for stricter regulations on firearms. The administration hopes that by closing the loophole that allowed unlicensed dealers to sell guns without background checks, they can prevent further incidents of gun violence. With the support of gun control advocates and continued efforts to pass comprehensive gun control legislation, the Biden administration remains committed to saving lives and making communities safer.
