Update to Proscribed Countries for Import Restrictions

Wiley Rein LLP, representing firearms importer clients, supports the proposed rule to modernize proscribed country lists and remove several former Soviet countries from import restrictions. They request specific clarifications and revisions to ensure the rule aligns with the 1996 Voluntary Restraint Agreement, specifically regarding firearms manufactured before 1991 and those located outside of the Russian Federation.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), a trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry, supports the proposed updates to the ATF's proscribed countries list to ensure consistency with Department of State regulations. They argue that the changes will reduce the regulatory burden on importers and provide greater clarity across different U.S. government agencies.

The commenter supports the proposed rule to update the proscribed countries list, arguing it will modernize regulations, lower ammunition prices for consumers, and increase funding for wildlife conservation. They also suggest providing guidance to protect domestic manufacturers and streamlining the processing of surplus firearms.

The commenter supports the proposed rule to update proscribed countries for import restrictions, arguing that it modernizes regulations and aligns them with current Department of State policy. They advocate for a dynamic review process where restrictions are based on current national security concerns rather than outdated geographic origins.

The commenter, representing the firearms import industry (Type 08 FFLs), supports the proposed rule because it harmonizes ATF regulations with Department of State standards, reducing administrative friction and creating a "singular point of truth." While they note the need for more agile compliance monitoring and potential competition for domestic manufacturers, they view the move as a technical optimization that streamlines the regulatory framework.

The commenter supports the proposed action to remove outdated country-based import restrictions, arguing that these blanket bans unfairly limit the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens. They contend that import policies should be based on current national security needs and specific legal authority rather than outdated geopolitical grudges.

An individual gun owner and market observer supports the proposed rule change to update proscribed countries for import restrictions. They argue that current restrictions have artificially inflated the prices of AK-pattern rifles and ammunition, and that removing these outdated barriers will increase competition and restore affordability for lawful commerce.

The commenter supports the proposed rules because they modernize outdated regulations, align ATF's country lists with Department of State policy, and provide clear definitions for components to reduce compliance confusion for importers. They argue that the changes are necessary regulatory housekeeping that improve consistency and do not impose new burdens on regulated parties.

An individual gun owner argues that the ban on ammunition and arms imports from former Soviet countries is arbitrary, politically motivated, and hypocritical compared to existing permissions for other countries. They advocate for removing these restrictions to promote free-market competition, strengthen diplomatic relations, and expand international trade.