Firearm Records Retention Periods

The commenter, a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) and Special Occupational Taxpayer, supports replacing the current indefinite firearm records retention requirement with a fixed term. They specifically urge the ATF to adopt a 20-year retention period rather than 30 years, arguing it is more consistent with historical standards, provides sufficient traceability for investigations, and aligns with statutory prohibitions against a federal firearms registry.

Christopher L Bennett, a private citizen, argues that the ATF should adopt the shortest possible records retention periods permitted by law. He expresses concern that long-term retention of firearm records violates privacy rights and could lead to the creation of a functional firearms registry.

The commenter, a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder, opposes the proposed rule because the retention periods are too long and create an undue financial burden on small businesses. They argue that any retention period exceeding 20 years violates the Firearms Owners’ Protection Act of 1986 and advocate for the shortest possible retention period, ideally zero years, to protect gun owners' privacy.

An FFL (Federal Firearms Licensee) opposes the proposed rule because they believe any retention period exceeding 20 years violates the Firearms Owners’ Protection Act of 1986 and creates a de facto federal registry. The commenter argues that the ATF should adopt the shortest possible retention period, ideally zero years, to protect gun owners' privacy and constitutional rights.

The commenter opposes the proposed firearm records retention periods, arguing that they resemble a national registry and infringe on privacy rights. They advocate for the immediate destruction of NICS check information by FFLs and suggest that individuals should only be required to keep records for 30 days.

The commenter opposes the proposed rule, arguing that extending record retention from 20 to 30 years lacks justification and provides little benefit. They also contend that the requirement to provide records when a dealer goes out of business violates the Firearms Owners' Protection Act's prohibition on a federal gun registry.