Comment on FR Doc # 2026-09156

Greetings I am submitting this comment to share my perspective as a registered nurse practicing in an inpatient psychiatric setting. I support the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agency’s efforts to revise the definitions of “adjudicated as a mental defective” and “committed to a mental institution.” In my professional experience, I have cared for patients admitted to the hospital due to intentions to harm themselves or others with firearms. I believe it is necessary to restrict firearm possession for certain individuals with mental health conditions. It is essential that any changes to the law are implemented with care to prevent unfair discrimination or denial of rights based solely on a mental health diagnosis. Safeguards and due process must be maintained to protect individuals who do not pose a risk to themselves or others. The proposed revisions clarify and streamline the legislation through updated definitions. These changes are significant because they directly impact individuals seeking to obtain firearms; previously, the language was ambiguous. Establishing precise and unambiguous definitions will help ensure that firearm restrictions are applied consistently and effectively. As a psychiatric nurse, I believe such clarity is crucial to preventing crisis situations in the United States. Best, Susan