S. 3085: Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act of 2025, aims to ensure that specific operations and services related to firearms laws continue to function during a government shutdown.

Key Provisions

• Emergency Operations: The bill designates certain firearm-related government operations as essential functions necessary for human safety and property protection. This classification allows associated employees to maintain their work even during a lapse in government funding.
• Continuity of Services: It specifies that operations pertaining to the following areas will continue:
  • The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which includes the processing of background checks for firearm purchases.
  • The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), focusing on enforcement programs and services related to firearms.
  • The Bureau of Industry and Security within the Department of Commerce, which handles processes for export licenses for firearms and firearm-related products.
  • The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls in the Department of State, also concerning export license applications for firearms and related products.

The overall intention of this bill is to maintain the functioning of critical firearm-related federal roles and services, even when the government faces funding interruptions, thereby ensuring continued enforcement of firearms laws and the regulation of firearm exports.

Relevant Companies

• None found