US Moves to End ‘Gun Show Loophole’
The White House is set to close a significant loophole allowing the sale of firearms at gun shows and online without federal background checks, Excel Magazine International has gathered.
According to BBC report, approximately 23,000 vendors will be classified as licensed firearms dealers, subjecting their sales to these checks.
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that those primarily selling guns for profit must obtain a license.
Although the Biden administration has anticipated legal challenges from pro-gun groups but expressed confidence in the legality of the measure, citing previous successful challenges.
Despite expected opposition from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and Republican senators, Garland views the regulation as a crucial step in saving lives, supported by data indicating an increase in illegally obtained firearms at shooting scenes.
Vice-President Kamala Harris echoed the importance of closing the “gun show loophole,” which will take effect 30 days after publication in the federal registry.
The White House references the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022, passed with bipartisan support following two major mass shootings, as the legal basis for expanding background check requirements.
However, Republican senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis plan to challenge the regulation, asserting it contradicts congressional intent.
The NRA condemns the move as an assault on lawful gun owners and vows to oppose it through all available means.
Currently, there are approximately 80,000 licensed firearms dealers in the US, all required to conduct background checks while gun-related deaths surpassed 40,000 in the United States last year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.
