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H.R. 2618: Federal Firearm Licensee Act

The Federal Firearm Licensee Act is designed to update and strengthen regulations surrounding the sale of firearms in the United States. It seeks to enhance accountability among firearm dealers and improve the security of firearm inventories. Key provisions of the bill include:

Modernizing Regulations

The bill aims to modernize firearm sales by establishing stricter regulations for dealers. This includes:

Enhanced record-keeping requirements for sales records.
New inspection protocols for high-risk dealers to ensure compliance with regulations.
Mandatory background checks for employees working at firearm dealerships.

Dealer Accountability

The legislation emphasizes dealer accountability by imposing penalties for non-compliance with established regulations. This includes the introduction of licensing fees that dealers must pay to maintain their operational status. These measures are intended to encourage firearm dealers to adhere to legal standards and practices.

Electronic Databases

A significant aspect of the bill is the establishment of electronic databases for firearm transactions. These databases are meant to assist law enforcement agencies in tracking firearm sales and reducing the distribution of illegal firearms. The use of electronic records aims to simplify the process of monitoring and auditing firearm transactions.

Adjustments to Existing Laws

The bill also involves amendments to various sections of Title 18 of the U.S. Code. Some highlights include:

Clarifying that certain provisions apply only to specified years—2005-2009 and 2023.
Removing outdated phrases related to fiscal year applicability, which helps streamline the regulations.

Increased Funding for Enforcement

To support the implementation and enforcement of these new regulations, the bill allows the Attorney General to hire an additional 650 investigators for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). This increase in personnel is designed to enhance the ATF's capacity to monitor compliance among firearm dealers effectively.

Conclusion

Through these measures, the Federal Firearm Licensee Act aims to create a more secure and accountable environment for firearm sales in the country, helping to reduce illegal firearm distribution and improve public safety.