Comment on FR Doc # 2026-08930

I support the removal of the ATF’s factoring criteria for firearms equipped with stabilizing braces. The previous criteria created confusion, inconsistency, and uncertainty for millions of law-abiding firearm owners, manufacturers, retailers, and instructors across the United States. Stabilizing braces were originally designed to assist disabled shooters and individuals who require additional support while safely operating large-format pistols. For years, these accessories were lawfully sold and possessed based on prior ATF guidance. The later implementation of subjective “factoring criteria” unfairly shifted longstanding interpretations and placed ordinary citizens at risk of unintentionally violating federal law due to vague and inconsistent standards. The factoring system relied heavily on subjective determinations involving weight, length, optics, marketing language, and intended use, rather than clear statutory definitions established by Congress. This created regulatory instability and made compliance extremely difficult, even for experienced firearm owners and certified instructors. Federal firearm regulations should be clear, objective, and consistent. Law-abiding citizens should not face potential felony consequences because of changing administrative interpretations that lack transparency and measurable standards. Removing the factoring criteria helps restore clarity and reinforces confidence that regulations will be based on law rather than evolving agency opinion. I respectfully urge the ATF to permanently eliminate subjective brace factoring criteria and pursue straightforward, constitutionally sound policies that protect both public trust and the rights of responsible firearm owners.