Pro-gun rights

Carl Higbie to Speak at GOALS 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 22, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that Carl Higbie, host of Carl Higbie Frontline on Newsmax and a leading voice in the fight for American liberty, will be joining the speaker lineup at the Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

A former Navy SEAL, government whistleblower, and unapologetic advocate for constitutional freedoms, Higbie brings a sharp, unfiltered perspective to today’s most pressing political and cultural issues. His experience on the frontlines of both war and media make him one of the most dynamic pro-gun voices in America—and a perfect addition to this year’s GOALS stage. 

GOALS 2025 will unite thousands of grassroots activists, industry leaders, lawmakers, and digital influencers for a high-impact weekend of training, networking, and celebration of the Second Amendment. With speakers like Carl Higbie, the summit promises to equip attendees with the tools, strategies, and inspiration they need to defend their freedoms at every level. 

Carl Higbie issued the following statement: 

“GOA is on the front lines of the Second Amendment battle—no compromise, no retreat. I’m honored to stand alongside them at GOALS 2025 and help fire up the movement to restore the Second Amendment.” 

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, added:  

“Carl Higbie doesn’t mince words—and that’s exactly what our movement needs right now. He brings both courage and clarity to the fight for liberty, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the GOALS stage in Knoxville.” 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, stated: 

“GOALS is about building a movement that’s bold, principled, and unafraid to speak the truth. Carl Higbie embodies that spirit, and his presence at this year’s summit will be a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom isn’t just political—it’s personal.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

Last week, voting on S 131 wrapped up in Vermont’s Senate Government Operations Committee. Unfortunately, Senator Clarkson, Senator Vyhovsky, and Senator White voted in favor of the bill, forming a majority over Senators Collamore and Hart who both voted “NO.”

This means that S 131 will be heard on second reading before the rest of the legislature tomorrow!

As a reminder from our previous update, S 131 amends the charter of the City of Burlington to allow for the creation of additional gun-free zones in bars and restaurants. Not only does this legislation violate Vermont’s existing preemption law AND create gun-free zones that strip law-abiding citizens of the right to self-defense, S 131 serves as another attempt from Burlington to alter their charter in disregard of the Second Amendment.

Burlington attempted to pass similar bans on firearms in bars and restaurants over a decade ago in 2013, and the issue resurfaced multiple times between 2014 and 2016.

In other states, like Maryland, similar legislation to turn restaurants and bars in into gun-free zones was tried with the passage of SB1 – the Gun Safety Act of 2023, but the portions of that bill restricting carry in bars and restaurants were struck down by a Federal Judge the following year.

Often brought up in these debates is the Vermont Sportsmen’s Bill of Rights, which can be seen below:

§ 2295. Authority of municipal and county governments to regulate firearms, ammunition, hunting, fishing, and trapping

Except as otherwise provided by law, no town, city, or incorporated village, by ordinance, resolution, or other enactment, shall directly regulate hunting, fishing, and trapping or the possession, ownership, transportation, transfer, sale, purchase, carrying, licensing, or registration of traps, firearms, ammunition, or components of firearms or ammunition. This section shall not limit the powers conferred upon a town, city, or incorporated village under subdivision 2291(8) of this title. The provisions of this section shall supersede any inconsistent provisions of a municipal charter. (Added 1987, No. 178 (Adj. Sess.), eff. May 9, 1988.)

To put it as plainly as possible, local governments aren’t allowed to make rules about hunting, fishing, or trapping. Nor can they create laws about firearms, ammunition, or related equipment, including buying, selling, owning, carrying, or registering them.

It’s clear that amending Burlington’s charter to create additional gun-free zones is unconstitutional on the grounds of violating state preemption.

Using the form above, send a message to your State Senator telling them to vote NO on S 131 when it comes up on second reading tomorrow. Let them know that any attempt to restrict the Second Amendment at any level in Vermont is unwelcome!

SAR USA to Exhibit at GOALS 2025, Joining GOA to Empower Gun Owners Nationwide 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 21, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that SAR USA will be among the exhibitors at the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10 in Knoxville, Tennessee. SAR USA, known for its innovative engineering and commitment to personal defense, will showcase its premier line of firearms to thousands of grassroots activists, industry leaders, and Second Amendment champions gathered for the event. 

GOALS 2025 will provide attendees with hands-on access to SAR USA’s trusted products, as well as opportunities to hear from key figures in the firearms industry and pro-gun movement. This year’s summit will once again bring together a dynamic mix of policymakers, digital creators, and citizens devoted to safeguarding America’s constitutional liberties. 

Gun Owners of America (GOA) is honored to welcome SAR USA to the exhibitor floor as part of its ongoing mission to unite the firearms community and equip law-abiding gun owners with the tools, training, and information they need to defend their rights. 

Tony Pignato, CEO of SAR USA, issued the following statement: 

“SAR USA is proud to join GOALS 2025 in Knoxville this August, connecting with passionate Second Amendment advocates from across the nation. This landmark event perfectly aligns with our belief that high-quality firearms aren’t a privilege, but a right for all Americans. We look forward to showcasing how we’re delivering on this promise, empowering gun owners with excellence they can trust for protection, duty, or recreation.” 

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“We’re thrilled to have SAR USA on board for GOALS 2025. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and constitutional freedom makes them a natural fit for this event. Their presence will be a major highlight for attendees looking to connect with serious industry players who share their values.” 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“GOALS is where gun owners from all walks of life come to learn, organize, and celebrate their rights. SAR USA’s dedication to empowering everyday Americans with reliable, high-quality firearms makes them an invaluable partner in that mission. We’re proud to welcome them to Knoxville this August.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 21, 2025) – Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) released the following statement regarding its Worth v. Jacobson lawsuit:

GOA-Backed Bill Passes to Make Tennessee a Firearms Industry Sanctuary Against Anti-Gun Lawsuits 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 21, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce the successful passage of SB1360/HB073 in the Tennessee General Assembly—legislation aimed at significantly strengthening legal protections for Tennessee-based members of the firearms industry. The bill, which was backed by GOA, passed both chambers with overwhelming majorities on April 15 and now awaits the governor’s signature. 

This critical legislation enhances Tennessee’s version of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), creating stronger legal immunity for firearm businesses targeted by the radical anti-gun lobby. It sends a clear message: Tennessee is a safe haven for lawful firearms commerce and won’t be used as a collection arm for unconstitutional out-of-state rulings. 

The new bill fortifies the state’s 2023 PLCAA law in multiple ways: 

• Expands legal protections to include additional industry players, including private sellers, suppressor manufacturers, and magazine producers. 

• Prohibits Tennessee courts from recognizing or enforcing out-of-state or foreign court judgments that conflict with Tennessee’s pro-Second Amendment public policy. 

• Penalizes bad-faith litigation by imposing triple damages on out-of-state plaintiffs and their attorneys who attempt to enforce hostile judgments in Tennessee courts—an unprecedented safeguard for gun rights advocates and businesses. 

The bill is expected to further bolster Tennessee’s reputation as a national hub for firearms manufacturing and sales. Industry leaders like Beretta and Smith & Wesson have already relocated operations to the state, and this new law will incentivize even more companies to do the same. 

GOA urges other pro-Second Amendment states to follow Tennessee’s lead by adopting similar legislation that shields their local gun industries from ideologically driven legal assaults. 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“Tennessee just made itself one of the most pro-gun states in America. With this law, radical anti-gun groups can no longer weaponize courts in California or New York to attack the Second Amendment industry in Tennessee. This is exactly the kind of bold leadership our movement needs to see across the country.” 

Chris Stone, Director of State Affairs for Gun Owners of America, added: 

“This bill is a game-changer for protecting lawful commerce in firearms. It ensures that Tennessee businesses—and gun owners—are shielded from weaponized lawsuits coming from anti-gun states. GOA thanks Tennessee’s lawmakers for their leadership and urges other states to adopt this model.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

With testimony on S 131 wrapping up today, it is extremely urgent that we tell Vermont’s Senate Government Operations Committee to vote NO on amending the charter of the City of Burlington to allow for the creation of additional gun-free zones when it comes up for a vote in tomorrow’s meeting.

Not only does this legislation violate Vermont’s existing preemption law AND create gun-free zones that strip law-abiding citizens of the right to self-defense, S 131 serves as another attempt from Burlington to alter their charter in disregard of the Second Amendment.

Burlington attempted to pass similar bans on firearms in bars and restaurants over a decade ago in 2013, and the issue resurfaced multiple times between 2014 and 2016.

In other states, like Maryland, similar legislation to turn restaurants and bars in into gun-free zones was tried with the passage of SB1 – the Gun Safety Act of 2023, but the portions of that bill restricting carry in bars and restaurants were struck down by a Federal Judge the following year.

Often brought up in these debates is the Vermont Sportsmen’s Bill of Rights, which can be seen below:

§ 2295. Authority of municipal and county governments to regulate firearms, ammunition, hunting, fishing, and trapping

Except as otherwise provided by law, no town, city, or incorporated village, by ordinance, resolution, or other enactment, shall directly regulate hunting, fishing, and trapping or the possession, ownership, transportation, transfer, sale, purchase, carrying, licensing, or registration of traps, firearms, ammunition, or components of firearms or ammunition. This section shall not limit the powers conferred upon a town, city, or incorporated village under subdivision 2291(8) of this title. The provisions of this section shall supersede any inconsistent provisions of a municipal charter. (Added 1987, No. 178 (Adj. Sess.), eff. May 9, 1988.)

To put it as plainly as possible, local governments aren’t allowed to make rules about hunting, fishing, or trapping. Nor can they create laws about firearms, ammunition, or related equipment, including buying, selling, owning, carrying, or registering them.

It’s clear that amending Burlington’s charter to create additional gun-free zones is unconstitutional on the grounds of violating state preemption.

Using the form above, send a message to the Senate Government Operations Committee to vote NO on S 131 during Friday’s committee meeting! Let them know that any attempt to restrict the Second Amendment at any level in Vermont is unwelcome!

FORT WORTH, TX (April 16, 2025) – Today, Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced that it has filed a motion for summary judgment in its Second Amendment lawsuit challenging laws prohibiting individuals from carrying firearms at certain locations in the State of Texas.

Daniel Defense to Exhibit at GOALS 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 16, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that Daniel Defense will be joining the lineup of exhibitors at the Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. Known for their premier firearms and support for the Second Amendment, Daniel Defense is a welcome addition to this year’s exhibitor floor. 

Attendees at GOALS 2025 will have the opportunity to engage directly with Daniel Defense representatives, explore their cutting-edge firearms, and preview exclusive new product launches. The summit brings together thousands of grassroots activists, industry innovators, policymakers, and digital influencers for a weekend dedicated to defending constitutional liberties and energizing America’s gun rights movement. 

GOA is proud to collaborate with companies like Daniel Defense, whose commitment to American freedom, quality manufacturing, and support for pro-gun advocacy strengthens the entire firearms community. Their presence at GOALS 2025 underscores the critical link between gun makers and the grassroots defenders of the Second Amendment. 

Daniel Defense issued the following statement: 

“We are excited to join GOA for the Second Annual GOALS event in Knoxville to unveil new products and collaborations! Last year’s event was an amazing celebration of the Second Amendment and we have no doubt that this year’s will be even better.” 

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“Daniel Defense is one of the most respected names in the firearms world, and their participation at GOALS 2025 is a huge win for our members. Their bold, unapologetic commitment to the Second Amendment aligns perfectly with what GOALS is all about—empowering citizens to protect and preserve their rights.” 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“GOALS isn’t just a conference—it’s a movement. Bringing Daniel Defense into the fold adds serious energy to our mission. They’re not just manufacturers—they’re patriots who back their principles with action. We’re honored to have them by our side in Knoxville.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

SAN DIEGO (April 11, 2025) – Today, Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced that its final brief has been filed at the district court in a FPC lawsuit challenging California’s ban on firearm carry by non-residents.

Palmetto State Armory Returns to GOALS 2025 to Support Gun Owners of America’s Mission 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 11, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that Palmetto State Armory (PSA) will once again be featured as a vendor at the Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place on August 9–10, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. PSA has been a cornerstone of the American firearms community and a strong ally to GOA in the ongoing fight to protect and preserve Second Amendment rights nationwide. 

 Attendees at GOALS 2025 will have the opportunity to connect directly with PSA representatives, explore their most popular product lines, and learn more about their long-standing support for pro-gun activism. The summit will once again bring together thousands of grassroots activists, industry leaders, legislators, and digital content creators for a weekend of education, advocacy training, and celebration of America’s constitutional freedoms.  

Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to have the continued support from Palmetto State Armory in our shared mission to defend the Second Amendment. Through generous donations, collaborative campaigns, and innovative product initiatives, PSA plays a vital role in helping to fund GOA’s grassroots activism and legislative efforts across the country. 

Jamin McCallum, PSA Founder and CEO, issued the following statement: 

“GOA is on the front lines protecting our rights. We’re honored to stand with them in defending the freedoms of law-abiding gun owners.” 

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“Palmetto State Armory has consistently proven to be more than just an industry leader—they’ve been a vital partner in the fight for gun rights. Their continued support for GOA and our mission means the world to us, and we can’t wait to welcome them back to Knoxville for GOALS 2025.” 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“GOALS is about energizing and equipping the grassroots to fight for their rights—and having Palmetto State Armory join us again is a tremendous boost. PSA not only makes high-quality firearms and gear, but they put their principles into action. They are an example of what it looks like when the firearms industry steps up to stand with gun owners.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

Bersa to Join Vendor Lineup at GOA’s 2025 GOALS Conference in Knoxville 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 10, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that Bersa will be among the featured vendors at this year’s Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place on August 9–10, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Argentine-American firearms manufacturer is a longtime favorite of shooters and self-defense advocates and will be showcasing its latest products, including its new U.S.-made line, to GOA members and fellow exhibitors throughout the event. 

GOALS 2025 will once again bring together thousands of grassroots activists, industry leaders, and content creators for a weekend of training, policy briefings, and fellowship—all while celebrating the Second Amendment. The exhibition hall will span over 120,000 square feet, with vendors like Bersa offering attendees hands-on access to some of the best products in the firearms space. Attendees will be permitted to lawfully carry their personal firearms while on-site. 

Rafael Del Valle, Director of U.S. Sales & Marketing for Bersa, issued the following statement:
“Bersa is proud to support GOA and its fight to protect 2nd Amendment rights for Americans. We look forward to attending GOALS 2025 this summer, helping to expand their mission, and sharing Bersa products, especially our new USA-made line, with their members at the show.” 

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement:
“We’re incredibly excited to have Bersa join our growing lineup of vendors at GOALS 2025. Their new American-made line reflects the spirit of innovation and commitment to freedom that this event is all about. Attendees will love having the chance to engage directly with a company that’s deeply rooted in supporting gun owners.” 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Bersa to the GOALS 2025 vendor floor. Bersa has been a trusted name in personal protection for decades, and their commitment to American manufacturing and gun rights advocacy aligns perfectly with our mission. Their presence will be a major draw for attendees, and we’re excited for our members to connect with them in Knoxville this August.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

This Monday, Maryland’s General Assembly adjourned ‘sine die’ for the year.

The good news for gun owners is that no new gun control measures were signed into law, including the following previously tracked bills:

HB 387 — Would have imposed an 11% tax on firearm sales by licensed dealers, both within and outside the state of Maryland.

HB 937 — Would have doubled the sales and use tax rate for sales of firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition from 6% to 12%.

HB 1287 — Would have banned any semi-automatic pistol that COULD be converted into a machinegun. While this legislation specifically targeted “Glock switches,” it was worded ambiguously enough to potentially include ALL semi-automatic pistols.

SB 444 — Would have required all firearms turned in at gun buyback programs to be destroyed.

HB 1050, and its companion bill SB 943 — Would have required firearms to be surrendered to law enforcement when responding to domestic violence protection orders, prohibited possession of firearms for the duration of the order, and created additional “Task Forces” aimed at further justifying disarming of Maryland citizens.

While Maryland’s legislative battle remains on the defensive foot for the foreseeable future, there are emerging opportunities for victory under the DOJ’s new pro-2A initiatives. GOA will continue fighting to uphold Marylander’s Second Amendment rights, and we encourage you to stay up to date by following our latest news tab.

GOA Thanks Kash Patel for Pro-2A Leadership at ATF, Looks Forward to Engaging New Director 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 9, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) today issued a statement thanking Kash Patel for his steadfast leadership and service during his tenure as Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). During his time in office, Patel played a pivotal role in restoring constitutional integrity to the agency — including abolishing the Biden-era Zero Tolerance Policy, which had targeted lawful gun dealers over minor paperwork errors. 

The repeal of this policy marked a critical win for gun owners and firearms retailers across the country. Gun Owners of America worked tirelessly to challenge the Zero Tolerance framework through litigation and advocacy, and Kash Patel’s decisive action sent a clear message: bureaucratic harassment of gun owners and FFLs will no longer be tolerated. 

GOA remains committed to defending the rights of law-abiding citizens and will closely follow the direction of the new ATF leadership to ensure that heavy-handed enforcement policies do not return. 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“We’re incredibly grateful to Kash Patel for standing up for the Constitution and restoring accountability at the ATF. His decision to end the Zero Tolerance Policy was a long-overdue course correction, and we thank him for defending the rights of law-abiding gun owners and dealers. GOA will continue to be vigilant as new leadership steps in.” 

Tim Macy, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“Kash Patel’s leadership proved that principled reform is possible. On behalf of millions of Second Amendment supporters nationwide, we thank him for his courage and clarity. Gun Owners of America looks forward to engaging with the new Director and continuing our work to ensure the rights of gun owners are protected against regulatory overreach.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

GOA & GOF Respond to the Supreme Court’s Denial of Certiorari in Antonyuk v. James 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 9, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) and Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), on behalf of Ivan Antonyuk and five other plaintiffs, are responding to the Supreme Court’s denial of certiorari in Antonyuk v. James, a pivotal case that challenges New York’s Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA). This case seeks to rein in New York’s post-Bruen restrictions that continue to infringe on the rights of lawful gun owners—particularly its vague “good moral character” requirement and limitations on carrying in a host of nonsensitive public places. 

The Court’s denial on Monday is the latest development in our ongoing effort to ensure that states, including New York, fully comply with the Supreme Court’s clear mandate in NYSRPA v. Bruen. That ruling confirmed that the Second Amendment protects the right to carry a firearm in public for self-defense and that any restrictions must align with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. 

Our petition argued that New York’s law defies that standard by invoking outlier, post-Founding laws to justify sweeping limits on concealed carry. We also highlighted the widening circuit split over how courts are interpreting and applying Bruen, and we urged the Court to provide clarity and enforce its precedent. 

Erich Pratt, GOA’s Senior Vice President, issued the following statement: 

“While we are disappointed by the Supreme Court’s decision not to take this case, we will never stop fighting to defend the rights of gun owners across the country. New York’s so-called ‘good moral character’ requirement is nothing more than a permission slip to violate constitutional rights. GOA and GOF will continue challenging laws that allow bureaucrats to decide who gets to exercise their Second Amendment freedoms.” 

Sam Paredes, on behalf of Gun Owners Foundation, added: 

“Make no mistake—this isn’t the end. The Second Circuit’s decision below is part of a broader campaign to resist Bruen and deny lawful Americans their rights. The Supreme Court may have passed on this case at this preliminary stage, but we are confident that the Justices will soon address the growing defiance of the lower courts. GOA and GOF are prepared to keep fighting, wherever this battle leads.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

– GOA – 

On March 26th, Rhode Island’s Judiciary Committee met to hear a long list of gun bills. Thanks to continued pressure, we were able to hold the line and delay a vote on ALL gun related bills in the Judiciary Committee, including the following:

HB 5443 – Allows individuals to voluntarily add themselves to a watchlist that would restrict their right to purchase or possess a firearm.

HB 5651 – Allows access to juvenile criminal records in order to conduct firearm background checks.

HB 5654 – Prevents local licensing authorities from granting concealed carry permits to out-of-state residents based on permits issued by other states.

HB 5889 – Allows law enforcement agencies to consider expunged records when issuing a license or permit to carry a pistol or revolver.

HB 5890 – Specifies that it is unlawful for any person under the age of 18 to possess a firearm.

HB 5436 – Imposes an “assault weapons” ban which would prohibit the future possession, purchase, sale, control, and manufacture of commonly owned firearms.

The official result of the Judiciary Committee’s March 26th meeting was that all bills would be held for further study. Simply put, the committee wants to delay making a decision on these bills. In this case, its due to Rhode Islanders’ massive grassroots support of the Second Amendment.

While there is a fair chance that these bills will die in committee, there is always a possibility they will be brought up again before the Legislature adjourns. We are asking that you remain vigilant and continue to show support for defending the Second Amendment in Rhode Island.

This week, we can score another victory by urging the House Finance Committee to pass HB 6014 on their April 10th meeting. This bill would create a sales and use tax exemption on the purchase of firearm safes and vaults and firearm safety equipment.

Reach out to your legislators using the form above to let them know we aren’t backing off about upholding the Second Amendment in Rhode Island.

As we told you earlier this year, Gun Owners of America has been working with pro-gun Tennessee State Senators and Representatives to update an important law which protects firearms manufacturers.

The Tennessee bill, titled the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act — and sponsored by Rep. Monty Fritts — is on notice for a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Wednesday, April 9th.

Much like the federal law which was passed in 2005, Tennessee’s current PLCAA protects the firearm industry against the business-ending lawfare that anti-gun litigants had been waging against manufacturers and dealers alike.

This is a great law – but we believe it can be stronger, offering even better protections from anti-gun activists.

Here is what the update will do.

House Bill 873 would amend the Tennessee state version of the PLCAA by expanding protections to additional entities (like individuals who privately sell firearms) and add additional categories (like suppressors and firearm magazines) while also heavily restricting bad-faith “public nuisance” anti-gun litigants.

HB 873 will help not only protect the Second Amendment rights of manufacturers and citizens, but it will hold anti-gun lawfare activists accountable when they try to drag law-abiding companies and citizens through the court system in an effort to bankrupt them.

Again, this bill is on notice for a House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, April, 9th!

So please use the form above to contact the House Judiciary Committee and urge them to move HB 873 forward!

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 7, 2025) – Today, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) provided Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) with an important update regarding firearm regulations, stating that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and ATF would repeal and revisit several regulations and enforcement practices implemented by the anti-Second Amendment Biden Administration. Three important reforms were announced, including the repeal of the Biden Federal Firearms Administrative Action Policy and Procedure (also known as the “Zero Tolerance” policy) as well as review and revisiting of the Biden “Pistol Brace Ban” and "Engaged in the Business” rules. FPC secured key wins for gun owners against the Biden Administration in its Mock v. Garland lawsuit, a case currently on appeal at the Fifth Circuit following another FPC victory at the district court which vacated the “Pistol Brace Ban” rule nationwide.

DOJ and ATF Repeal Zero Tolerance Policy, Major Second Amendment Win for the Trump Administration 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 7, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – In a significant win for the Second Amendment, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced today the repeal of the controversial Federal Firearms Administrative Action Policy, also known as the Zero Tolerance Policy. First introduced under the Biden administration, the policy aggressively targeted gun dealers for minor paperwork errors—creating fear and uncertainty across the firearms community. 

The decision to roll back this anti-gun policy comes under the direction of the Trump administration and marks a key step toward restoring Americans’ access to firearms. The DOJ and ATF, now led by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Acting ATF and FBI Director Kash Patel, will also begin formal reviews of the tyrannical stabilizing brace rule and the unlawful “engaged in the business” rule used to target private gun sellers. 

The stabilizing brace rule, which attempted to reclassify braced pistols as short-barreled rifles under the National Firearms Act, and the “engaged in the business” rule, which was a backdoor attempt to create Universal Background Checks, were both the subject of national backlash and multiple court challenges. 

Gun Owners of America has long sounded the alarm on the weaponization of the ATF under the Biden administration, where bureaucratic overreach was used to harass law-abiding gun dealers and crush small businesses. The so-called “Zero Tolerance” Policy wasn’t about safety—it was about control. GOA and Gun Owners Foundation responded with force, filing two major federal lawsuits: Kiloton Tactical v. ATF and Morehouse Enterprises, LLC v. ATF (II). Today’s repeal is a direct result of sustained legal and grassroots pressure—and a clear sign that this administration is serious about restoring constitutional order. 

Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“For years, the Zero Tolerance Policy has been a tool of political retribution—targeting gun stores and Americans who were simply trying to exercise their rights. We applaud President Trump, Attorney General Bondi, and Director Kash Patel for listening to gun owners and taking action to repeal this abusive policy. This is what pro-gun leadership looks like.” 

Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement: 

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re seeing a realignment toward the Constitution. This repeal and regulatory review of ATF’s “Zero Tolerance” Policy sends a clear message that the era of Biden gun control is over. GOA is grateful for the administration’s commitment to restoring Second Amendment rights and standing with law-abiding gun owners nationwide.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA- 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 7, 2025) – Today, the Firearms Policy Coalition announced priority policy reforms and urged the White House and Department of Justice to take immediate and meaningful action to safeguard and support the rights of peaceable gun owners across the country. 

The SHORT Act would remove short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and other firearms from the draconian NFA.

GOA’s Erich Pratt with Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA)

Add your name now to support this legislation and help get it over the finish line!

SIGN TO SUPPORT THE SHORT ACT

Despite being protected under the Second Amendment, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and other firearms are being taxed. This is a clear violation of Americans’ right to keep and bear arms.

Rep. Andrew Clyde and Sen. Roger Marshall have recently introduced the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act to remove SBRs and SBSs from the draconian NFA. This would prevent anti-gun politicians from unconstitutional regulations, taxes, and registration requirements.

It would also prevent a future administration from using the NFA in a way that’s similar to what Joe Biden did. He used the NFA to sweep up to 40 million pistol-braced firearms under the umbrella of the National Firearms Act, decreeing that these lawfully purchased firearms were now illegal SBRs or SBSs.

Preventing this kind of abuse is why the SHORT Act is so important. And why the GOA team is already pounding the pavement on Capitol Hill, working to get these bills passed. We must immediately remove SBRs and SBSs from the NFA!

This is why we recently met with Rep. Andrew Clyde, the sponsor of the SHORT Act, and cut a video with him in an effort to generate grassroots support for more cosponsors for his bill.

And it’s why we need your help to get this important legislation over the finish line. The Clyde bill (H.R. 2369) is most likely to get voted on first. So will you sign the petition in support of the SHORT Act in the House of Representatives?

Passing the SHORT Act is critical in protecting Americans’ right to keep and bear arms.

Please sign the petition now to join GOA in this fight.