White House Tells ATF to Stand Down on Gun Registration Case

ATF faces an Oct. 5 deadline to appeal a federal ruling striking down NFA suppressor registration requirements — with reports the White House wants ATF to stand down instead. - The ruling: A federal judge in Texas ruled in August that NFA registration and pre-approval requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns exceeded Congress's power after lawmakers zeroed out the associated $200 tax last year. The injunction applies only to plaintiffs and associated litigants, not nationwide. - What's next: DOJ has until Oct. 5 to appeal. CBS reports unnamed DOJ officials say the White House has directed ATF not to appeal, and instead issue new guidance to Congress. That leaves open questions about how dealers (FFLs) will handle transfers of previously taxed suppressors and short-barreled firearms. - Separately: ATF this week proposed new rules giving applicants more flexibility on ID photo submissions and fingerprinting, and addressed NFA firearms tied to government contracts. State suppressor bans remain in effect regardless of the federal ruling. Should DOJ appeal, or let the ruling stand nationwide? Leave your thoughts in the comments. #ATF #NFA #GunRights #SecondAmendment #CenterSquare #TheStates