Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2025
Summary
The Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2025 aims to create an electronic, searchable database of firearm information at the National Tracing Center of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This database would include records of importation, production, shipment, receipt, sale, or other disposition of firearms. The goal is to enhance law enforcement's ability to trace firearms used in crimes.
Expected Effects
The Act would require the ATF to establish and maintain electronic databases of firearm records. It would also allow licensees to provide electronic access to their records and voluntarily relinquish non-electronic records under certain conditions. The Comptroller General would audit compliance with the Act.
Potential Benefits
- Improved law enforcement efficiency in tracing crime guns.
- Enhanced ability to identify patterns and sources of illegal firearms.
- Better access to information for bona fide law enforcement investigations.
- Potential for more effective regulation of firearms trafficking.
- Increased transparency in firearm sales and transfers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to data collection and storage.
- Costs associated with establishing and maintaining the electronic databases.
- Risk of data breaches or misuse of information.
- Possible burden on licensed firearm dealers to comply with new electronic reporting requirements.
- Concerns about potential for the database to be used for purposes beyond law enforcement investigations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's alignment with the Constitution is complex. The Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms, but this right is not unlimited. The government can regulate firearms to promote public safety. The creation of a database could be seen as an infringement, but the Act includes provisions to limit access and protect privacy. The Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, is also relevant. The Act requires a bona fide law enforcement investigation for access, which could satisfy the Fourth Amendment's requirements.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).