ATF Halts Enforcement of Certain Firearm Registration Rules, Washington State Restrictions Remain
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has announced it will cease enforcing specific National Firearms Act requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and certain other firearms. This includes requirements for prior federal approval and registration. This policy change follows an August ruling by a federal judge in Texas and the Justice Department's subsequent decision not to appeal. While the court's injunction initially applied only to the plaintiffs in that case, the ATF has extended its enforcement policy nationwide. However, the ATF emphasized that individuals must continue to comply with state and local restrictions, which may be more stringent than federal requirements. For instance, Washington state law generally restricts the possession of short-barreled rifles and shotguns, with specific exceptions. The ATF also clarified that federal approval is still necessary for interstate transportation of short-barreled rifles and shotguns under the ...
