Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act of 2025
Summary
The Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act of 2025 aims to ensure the continuation of specific federal government operations related to firearms law enforcement and firearm export licensing during government shutdowns. It designates these operations as essential for the safety of human life and protection of property. This allows employees involved in these operations to be considered "excepted employees" who can continue working during a lapse in appropriations.
Expected Effects
The Act would ensure that background checks through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) continue uninterrupted during government shutdowns. It also ensures that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) can continue processing firearm-related export licenses.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuous operation of NICS, preventing delays in firearm sales to eligible individuals.
- Maintains the enforcement of firearms laws during government shutdowns.
- Supports the firearm industry by allowing export licensing to continue.
- Reduces potential backlogs in firearm-related processes after a shutdown ends.
- Potentially enhances public safety by ensuring background checks are consistently performed.
Potential Disadvantages
- May prioritize firearm-related operations over other essential government services during shutdowns.
- Could be perceived as prioritizing gun rights over other rights or services.
- May increase the burden on the ATF and other agencies during shutdowns.
- Potential for increased strain on resources if shutdowns are frequent or prolonged.
- May not address the root causes of government shutdowns.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act potentially aligns with the Second Amendment by ensuring the right to bear arms is not infringed due to government shutdowns. However, it must be balanced with the government's power to regulate firearms for public safety. The Act also relates to Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, impacting firearm export licensing.
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).