Comment on FR Doc # 2026-09157
Laura BuckOpposeIndividual
Summary: The commenter opposes the proposed rule because it facilitates remote and online firearm sales, which they argue makes it harder for Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) to identify suspicious behavior or signs of crisis in customers. They believe that in-person interactions are essential for FFLs to serve as an effective "first line of defense" against firearms trafficking and gun violence.
Time and again, ATF Director Cekada has said that “FFLs are our first line of defense in the fight against firearms trafficking.” I agree. FFLs (also known as gun dealers) must be part of the solution to our current gun violence crisis.
That means, among other things, being vigilant about recognizing suspicious customer behavior that can indicate criminal intent like straw purchasing, unlicensed dealing, and gun trafficking. It also means observing warning signs that a customer is in crisis or a danger to themselves. In these cases, responsible, public safety-minded FFLs can choose not to sell firearms to these individuals.
To do so, FFLs have to be able to see them in person. But ATF’s proposed rule entitled, “Revising Non-Over-the-Counter Firearms Transaction Requirements” (RIN 1140-AB05), would create more opportunities where customers never need to set foot in a store to purchase a firearm. In other words, this rule would allow more fully remote and online gun sales and, in the process, make it more difficult for FFLs to detect suspicious behaviors and warning signs.
How can FFLs be the first line of defense if this rule sidelines them from interacting with customers in person? For these reasons, I oppose this proposed rule and ask ATF to withdraw it altogether. ATF should be working to make us safer, but this rule would do just the opposite.