Comment on FR Doc # 2026-09156
Phillip HagelSupportIndividual
Summary: Phillip Hagel, a private citizen and gun owner, supports the proposed rule to modernize the definitions of "adjudicated as a mental defective" and "committed to a mental institution." He argues that the update aligns the language with current medical standards and ensures that individuals with specific functional disabilities are not unfairly prohibited from firearm ownership while maintaining safety protections for those who pose a danger to others.
I am a responsible gun owner writing to support the proposed rule to modernize the definitions of “adjudicated as a mental defective” and “committed to a mental institution” (RIN 1140-AB04). This update is long overdue and brings much-needed clarity and fairness to these critical public safety regulations.
I support the effort to align the term “mental defective” with current medical standards, associating it with “intellectually disabled” and ensuring that individuals receiving assistance in one functional area—like financial management—are not unfairly prohibited from firearm ownership. At the same time, the rule properly maintains prohibitions for those found to be a danger to themselves or others, or found not guilty by reason of insanity.
This balanced approach protects public safety while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens. I urge the ATF to finalize this rule as proposed.
Sincerely,
Phillip L Hagel
Goodyear AZ