Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
This bill, the Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act, aims to maintain critical functions related to firearms enforcement and export licensing within the federal government even if Congress fails to pass appropriations. Specifically, it designates certain operations of the FBI, ATF, Department of Commerce, and Department of State as essential and ensures that employees performing these duties during a shutdown are considered ‘excepted employees,’ allowing them to continue working. The bill seeks to prevent disruptions to background checks and export licensing processes that relate to public safety and property protection.
Key provisions
- Designates specific federal agencies (FBI, ATF, Department of Commerce, Department of State) as subject to the bill.
- Ensures continued operation of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
- Guarantees the processing of firearm export license applications.
- Classifies employees performing these functions as ‘excepted employees’ during government shutdowns.
- Defines ‘excepted employees’ under the Antideficiency Act.
- Relates operations to an emergency involving safety or property protection.
- Covers the Directorate of Enforcement Programs and Services of the ATF.
- Covers the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls of the Department of State.
Who is affected
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Department of Commerce
Bill text
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Sponsors
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