Currently, if someone wants to buy a gun from an out-of-state FFL, the dealer must ship the gun to the person’s state of residency. Additionally, federal law bars selling handguns to out-of-state residents. This is especially difficult for spouses of military members. Those serving can purchase firearms in both their state of residency and state of station. However, spouses must travel to their state of residency to purchase a gun. This bill would allow folks to legally buy guns in other states, under both states’ laws.
“This is common-sense legislation that would allow law-abiding Americans to purchase firearms of their choosing while ensuring state and federal laws are enforced,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “Federally licensed firearms retailers already ensure firearms are only transferred in face-to-face transactions and only upon completion and verification of an FBI background check. This legislation would enable retailers to use the technology already available to reduce administrative burdens placed on customers through outdated laws.”
The Reasons for H.R 2443
Proponents claim that the law adopted in the 60s is outdated. In fact, regardless of residency, FFL dealers must run a NICS check to ensure the person can purchase a gun. They claim the NICS check makes prohibiting sales across state lines unnecessary. The bill would allow gun owners to purchase guns when traveling. It would also allow dealers to sell guns at shows in other states. It would, however, require that the gun laws of both states be followed. This includes the dealer and the purchaser.
Proponents also claim that this bill would reduce the chances of firearm theft. If a purchaser wants to buy a gun another state, the dealer must ship it to another dealer. This increases the chances of theft, which is how most criminals obtain firearms.
Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act
According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, this bill would:
- Enable licensed dealers to transfer firearms (rifles, shotguns and handguns) to out-of-state buyers so long as the transaction complies with the laws of the state of both the transferor and the transferee.
- Permit licensed retailers to sell firearms at out-of-state gun shows provided that the laws of the state of both the transferor and the transferee are complied with.
- Allow for face-to-face transfer of firearms between licensed dealers. Currently dealers must ship a firearm, significantly increasing the risk of theft in the process.
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