S. 2191: Ammunition Modernization and Monitoring Oversight Act

This bill, titled the Ammunition Modernization and Monitoring Oversight Act (or AMMO Act), proposes several amendments to existing laws regarding the sale and transfer of ammunition in the United States. Its main objectives are to enhance regulation and oversight of ammunition sales in order to prevent illegal activities, such as straw purchasing and bulk sales that may facilitate criminal behavior.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Federal License Required to Deal in Ammunition

The bill updates definitions to include ammunition in the existing laws governing the sale and transfer of firearms. It mandates that any person dealing in ammunition must be a licensed dealer or manufacturer.

2. Ammunition Recordkeeping Requirement

Certain licensed dealers will be required to maintain records of ammunition transactions similar to those for firearms. This includes keeping detailed records of who purchased the ammunition and the amount sold.

3. Prohibition on Straw Purchase of Ammunition

The bill explicitly prohibits the straw purchasing of ammunition, which refers to the act of buying ammunition on behalf of someone who is prohibited from owning it.

4. Restriction on Bulk Ammunition Sales

The legislation sets limits on how much ammunition can be sold in bulk during a specified time frame (5 days). Under this provision:

• A licensed dealer cannot sell more than 100 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition, or more than 1,000 rounds of any other caliber within a 5-day period.
• Sellers must verify that the purchaser has not already exceeded these limits.

5. Background Check Requirement

Before transferring ammunition to someone who does not have a license, federal firearms licensees are required to conduct a background check. This includes checking with the national instant criminal background check system. The licensee must verify the identity of the purchaser using valid identification.

6. Administrative and Penalty Provisions

The bill establishes strict administrative requirements for recordkeeping and reporting. Licensed dealers must retain records of the transactions for at least two years and report specific transactions to the Attorney General. Penalties for non-compliance include fines and suspensions of license to sell firearms or ammunition. Specifically:

• The first violation of certain provisions can incur a fine of up to $50,000.
• Subsequent violations could lead to temporary suspension or revocation of the dealer's license.

7. Signage Requirements

Licensed dealers will be required to post signs at their premises outlining these new provisions and penalties related to the sale of ammunition.

8. Reporting Requirements

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) must annually report any violations that affect the sale and transfer of ammunition. This will include information about sales data and crime statistics to assist in law enforcement efforts.

9. Effective Date

The amendments proposed by this Act will take effect 120 days after its enactment.

Relevant Companies

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