New Bill Challenges ATF’s Role: A Step Towards Gun Rights Reform?

U.S. Capitol building against blue sky.

Representatives Boebert and Burlison challenge federal power with the “Abolish the ATF” bill, aiming to defend Second Amendment rights and reassess governmental boundaries.

At a Glance

  • Bill to abolish ATF has been introduced by Representatives Boebert and Burlison.
  • The bill focuses on defending Second Amendment rights against federal overreach.
  • ATF accused of overstepping with regulations like the stabilizing brace rule.
  • Low probability the bill will be enacted due to the political landscape.

The Push for the Bill

Representative Lauren Boebert of Colorado spearheads the effort to dismantle the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Co-sponsored by Missouri Representative Eric Burlison, the bill emphasizes Second Amendment rights and limiting federal overreach. On January 3, Boebert introduced HR 129. It remains in the early legislative phases, highlighting Republican dissatisfaction with the ATF and accusations of its misuse by the Biden administration.

The criticism stems from regulatory decisions such as classifying pistols with stabilizing braces as short-barreled rifles. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals deemed this rule likely illegal in August 2024. Burlison references past errors like Operation Fast and Furious, a failed sting operation from 2009 to 2011, as a cause for concern.

Gaining Republican Support

Gaining traction among Congressional Republicans, the bill includes several GOP cosponsors. Critics argue the ATF acts as a form of government overreach, burdening local law enforcement with enforcing federal regulations that lack state authorization. Boebert, previously owning a business where staff openly carried firearms, remains committed to protecting gun rights.

“There’s been a lot of talk about defunding the ATF…I’m still here waiting to hear a good reason why the ATF should remain an agency at all.” – Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert

Burlison asserts that the ATF has a history of infringing on Second Amendment rights. He suggests that states should handle firearms regulation without federal involvement. This aligns with conservative values of limiting federal power in favor of state sovereignty.

Prospects of Passage

Despite determined efforts, the bill faces significant hurdles in progressing through Congress. Govtrack.us estimates a mere 4% chance of passing the committee and a 2% chance of enactment. Even with the GOP holding majorities in both the House and Senate, the political climate presents challenges for such measures.

“The ATF is a disaster. For decades, they’ve been a disaster agency, and they’ve been violating the Second Amendment.” – Missouri Representative Eric Burlison

On the other hand, the ATF defends its contributions to reducing violent crime. As discussions continue, the “Abolish the ATF” bill serves as a focal point in the ongoing national debate about the balance of power between the federal government and individual freedoms.

Sources

1. Boebert, Burlison introduce bill to abolish the ATF

2. Lauren Boebert Introduces Bill to Abolish ATF

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