Feed aggregator

FPC warned Louisiana of the constitutional problem in 2025 and proposed a simple legislative fix—but the State refused. Now FPC is asking a federal court to stop the unconstitutional ban.

LAFAYETTE, LA (September 1, 2026) — Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced today that it has filed a motion for preliminary injunction in its Pool v. Besson lawsuit, asking the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana to immediately block Louisiana’s ban on handgun carry permits for 18-to-20-year-old adults.

THIS WEEK IN THE FIGHT Here’s what you may have missed this week in the fight for the Second Amendment…

• Biden’s “Ghost Gun” rule was struck down by the courts. GOA’s case against it is still active.

• Gun shops are passing ATF inspections after selling suppressors with no registration.

• A foreign ransomware gang hacked ATF.

A federal judge struck down the ghost gun rule. Our case is still in the fight.

On August 17, Judge Reed O’Connor threw out the Biden rule that treated unfinished chunks of plastic or metal as complete firearms.

The Judge decided that the rule violates the Second Amendment, and that it was too vague to be legal on top of that.

The rule could not say when a block of material becomes a gun. It gave ATF a list of factors and let the agency decide case by case. Individuals were expected to guess, and guessing wrong is a felony.  

Credit where it belongs. That case was brought by Defense Distributed and the Second Amendment Foundation, and they earned it. Two things to keep straight. The judge’s order protects the people in that lawsuit, and the government can still take it to the Fifth Circuit.

We have been fighting the same rule since 2022. Our case is Morehouse Enterprises v. ATF, filed in North Dakota with a gun shop standing beside us as co-plaintiff.

That case also takes aim at ATF’s registry of gun owners. Hold onto that last part because it comes back at the bottom of this email.

Gun shops are passing ATF inspections after selling suppressors with no registration.

When a federal district judge in Texas ruled in GOA’s favor in our NFA case, gun shops across the country gained protection under the injunction by becoming GOA Corporate Members.

As a result, these dealers have been able to sell suppressors using the same background check form required for a rifle purchase. No Form 4. No federal registration.

Four of those shops have now been inspected by ATF. All four came out clean, with zero violations. The inspectors did not treat the sales as violations, because of the court order.

*That does not mean ATF has formally endorsed or approved these sales. ATF has not issued any public guidance on the matter.*

This information came from people in the industry—not from ATF itself. GOA asked ATF for something in writing weeks ago, but we have received nothing in response—not even an acknowledgment that our inquiry was received.

Keep in mind that if you are not covered by the court order, none of this applies to you. The injunction protects GOA members and the customers of the companies involved in the lawsuit—in those states which do not ban NFA items. Everyone else remains outside the injunction’s protection.

If you are an FFL, consult an attorney licensed in your state before changing the way you operate your shop. 

BECOME A CORPORATE MEMBER!

Keep an eye on this one. A ransomware gang hit ATF.

A Russian ransomware crew called Qilin claimed ATF as a victim last Wednesday. The bureau confirmed it the same day. The agency says the machine that got hit was a standalone system holding information on people ATF was investigating, and that it was not connected to eForms or its other systems. Justice Department officials labeled it a major incident, which is a formal designation that requires them to notify Congress.

Early word from inside ATF is that gun owner records were not taken. We hope that holds. But nobody has verified what the hackers walked away with, and the gang has not shown its hand yet.

Here is the part that should stick with you. ATF sits on files covering roughly a billion guns and gun owners, including paperwork from shops that closed years ago. Every one of those records is a target.

This is why GOA is calling on President Trump to delete ATF’s illegal digital gun registry. And we are also calling on Congress to pass the No REGISTRY Rights Act by Rep. Michael Cloud and Senator Jim Risch to certify the registry’s complete destruction.

HELP STOP ATF’s REGISTRY!

P.S., we’ve partnered with our friends at GoatGuns to bring you a limited edition 1911 celebrating GOA’s 50th anniversary! 

Proceeds from the sales of this product go to supporting GOA in our mission to fight for the Second Amendment!

SUPPORT GOA, BUY A GOAT GUN!

If you aren’t already, please consider becoming a GOA member so that we can fight on your behalf! And consider also making it a repeating yearly contribution so that you will always stay covered by our lawsuit injunctions. 

FPC’s merits brief in Viramontes v. Cook County shows why the Court should hold that bans on so-called “assault weapons” are unconstitutional and semiautomatic firearms are protected by the Second Amendment.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 28, 2026) — Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced today that its legal team has filed its merits brief with the United States Supreme Court in Viramontes v. Cook County, asking the Court to hold that bans on so-called “assault weapons” are unconstitutional and that semiautomatic rifles are protected by the Second Amendment.

Dear Friend,

Hours from now, our legal team will file FPC’s main brief with the United States Supreme Court in our Viramontes v. Cook County Second Amendment lawsuit challenging bans on so-called assault weapons.

The question before the Court is simple: Does the Constitution protect the right to possess AR-15s and similar semiautomatic rifles?

You and I know the answer. Tomorrow, we will make our case.

This moment did not happen by accident. It is the product of a strategy we have been building and executing for years.

Let’s Eliminate Suppressor and SBS Restrictions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvanians should NEVER be treated like criminals for exercising their constitutionally-protected rights.

Yet under Pennsylvania’s archaic Title 18, Section 908, law-abiding citizens face state criminal charges simply for possessing suppressors (hearing protection) and short-barreled shotguns (SBSs)—tools that are widely owned across America.

Section 908 classifies suppressors and SBSs under the umbrella of “prohibited offensive weapons.” Under current state law, gun owners are only shielded from state prosecution through a narrow legal exception: proving they are in strict compliance with the federal National Firearms Act (NFA).

This reliance on federal regulation has created a dangerous legal trap.

Following the recent landmark court decision in Silencer Shop v. ATF in Texas, key elements of federal registration and NFA tax stamp mandates have been dismantled for GOA members and other plaintiffs.

But because Pennsylvania state law ties your legal rights directly to federal compliance, Pennsylvanians are left stranded in dangerous legal ambiguity.

If these items no longer require federal registration or tax stamps under federal court decisions, PA gun owners face an unconstitutional Catch-22: you could still be prosecuted under state law unless you voluntarily continue to register your property with the federal government!

It is time to eliminate this state-level trap once and for all.

The good news is that State Representative Rob Kauffman (R-89) is introducing a vital bill to FIX Title 18, Section 908 by completely removing suppressors and short-barreled shotguns from the list of prohibited offensive weapons!

This legislation is long overdue:

• Eliminates the Legal Trap: Removing suppressors and SBSs from Section 908 permanently decouples state law from shifting federal NFA regulations, ensuring gun owners aren’t criminalized regardless of federal court decisions.
• Hearing Protection: Suppressors are essential safety gear designed to prevent permanent hearing loss, reduce noise pollution at target ranges, and improve accuracy.
• Restoring Freedom: Harrisburg has no business restricting safety equipment and firearms that are routinely used for self-defense, hunting, and sport.

The anti-gun Democrats and Harrisburg gun grabbers thrive on confusing statutes that penalize peaceful citizens while doing absolute nothing to deter real criminals. For far too long, Section 908 has hung over the heads of gun owners who are simply exercising their God-given rights.

Rep. Kauffman’s bill will restore sanity to state law—but we need to build overwhelming momentum RIGHT NOW while the co-sponsorship memorandum is actively circulating!

We must ensure that every state lawmaker hears from their constituents before this bill hits the House floor. We cannot afford to let anti-gun politicians or weak-kneed legislators stall this pro-gun fix.

That’s why I need you to send a message to your State Representative immediately (by using the form above). Urge them to sign on as a CO-SPONSOR to Rep. Rob Kauffman’s bill to fix Title 18, Section 908 and remove suppressors and short-barreled shotguns from state prohibition.

Simply voting yes when a bill reaches the floor isn’t enough—our elected officials must actively champion the restoration of our constitutional freedoms from the start.

Please take action right now. Let your State Representative know that you expect them to stand up for your God-given rights, protect your hearing, and co-sponsor Rep. Kauffman’s bill today!

 

We won our case, but ATF is stalling, so let’s turn up the heat and make them clear things up for dealers and gun owners nationwide…

On August 5th, GOA won our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit,” against the registration requirements of the NFA.

But, in the weeks following the decision, many GOA members have found that their dealer will not transfer them a short barreled firearm or suppressor without one thing…

Guidance from ATF.

All over the country, gun shops have been advising their customers that they’re awaiting guidance from ATF on how to go about transferring an unregistered short barreled firearm or suppressor.

I’ve encountered this situation personally with my local gun shop, and so have many other members of GOA staff.

And of course, ATF has not said a word as to when gun owners or dealers all across the country should expect to know how to engage with this landmark decision.

This is the unfortunate reality of federal firearms regulation.

And, this is why GOA is opposed to ALL gun control.

While some FFLs are proceeding with transactions, others are not—instead waiting for ATF to clear up the grey areas out of fear of potential consequences.

That’s why we’re calling on all GOA members to do two things.

First, click the red button below to contact your members of Congress, and urge them to force ATF to issue guidance in line with our ruling, and with Congress’ own letter to ATF.

Second, call the DOJ’s comment line at 202-353-1555 and let them know that you’ll be asking Congress to cut their funding if ATF continues stalling.

ATF IS STALLING, CONGRESS CAN STOP IT

ATF must provide guidance, and yet it’s been weeks since GOA’s victory with no word to dealers across the country.

The silence from ATF is deafening.

But as we know with Bureaucrats, they respond to one thing, and one thing only.

Pressure.

Congress has the power of the purse.

If ATF doesn’t want their budget cut, they should immediately issue guidance that aligns with this ruling, and the intent of Congress.

That means removing the registration requirements on these items and extending GOA’s victory to all gun owners nationwide.

Congress can pressure ATF into taking action, we just need to make sure that they do so.

We’ve already written the email for you. All you need to do is click below, and it will go straight to your elected officials, urging them to press ATF on this issue and hold them accountable to gun owners like you. 

Of course, GOA won’t stop fighting until the rest of the NFA is dead and gone.

On August 5, 2026, a federal judge in Texas ruled that the National Firearms Act’s registration requirements are unconstitutional for certain firearms whose NFA tax has been reduced to $0. This ruling was thanks to GOA’s historic “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit.” 

Since then, we’ve received thousands of questions about what the ruling means for gun owners. Here are the answers we have right now to some of the most common questions. 

Important: DOJ and ATF have not yet issued guidance explaining how they will implement the ruling. This situation is rapidly evolving, and this information is not legal advice. Consult an attorney before taking any action. 

• Am I covered if I’m a GOA member? 

GOA’s reading of the court’s order is yes. The judge’s injunction protects the plaintiffs and, where applicable, their current and future members and customers. 

However, exactly what members can do under the ruling remains unclear until DOJ and ATF provide guidance. 

• Does the ruling apply nationwide? 

The injunction applies to the plaintiffs and the members and customers covered by the court’s order. 

Plaintiffs: 

• • Gun Owners of America 

• • Gun Owners Foundation 

• • Silencer Shop Foundation 

• • B&T USA 

• • Palmetto State Armory 

• • SilencerCo 

• • Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition 

• • Brady Wetz 

However, state and local laws may impose additional restrictions, so gun owners should consult an attorney. 

• Can I buy a suppressor without NFA paperwork? 

DOJ has not yet issued guidance on what paperwork will be required. 

GOA is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as soon as official guidance becomes available. 

• Can I buy an SBR or SBS without NFA paperwork? 

The court struck down the NFA’s registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, and suppressors. However, the government has not yet explained what the acquisition process will look like going forward. 

Do not assume a particular transaction is lawful without consulting an attorney. 

• What NFA rules are still in effect? 

The ruling struck down the registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, and suppressors, but other NFA provisions may remain in effect. 

DOJ will need to provide further clarity on how the remaining provisions apply. 

• What happens next? 

The Trump Administration has reportedly indicated that it will not appeal the ruling, though the government still has time to do so. 

GOA is also pushing for DOJ to take the additional step of extending this victory to all Americans, rather than only those covered by the injunction. 

• How do I know if I’m a GOA member? 

You can check your status through the GOA Member Portal. 

If your account appears blank, that does not mean your membership is inactive. GOA is currently transferring existing membership information to the new system, and that process may take a couple of weeks. 

If you are not already a GOA member, join today at GunOwners.org. 

We will continue providing updates as DOJ and ATF release more information. 

THIS WEEK IN GUN RIGHTS! At GOA, we’ve been hard at work fighting for your Second Amendment rights, here’s a recap of the things you should know…

A federal judge ruled the registration requirements on short, barreled firearms and suppressors are unconstitutional.

DOJ had a week to appeal the stay and let it pass.

On midnight, when the stay expired, two GOA members became the first in the country since 1934 to buy suppressors with no registration.

Congress is moving on two fronts to wipe out the rest of the NFA tax, ATF still won’t answer our letters, and there are limits you need to understand before you act.

Here’s all of it…

WHERE THINGS STAND…

The last two weeks have moved faster than the last two decades.

August 5. The court ruled.

Judge James Wesley Hendrix in the Northern District of Texas, held that the NFA’s registration requirements are unconstitutional as applied to the recently reduced $0 tax items. (SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, Suppressors)

Congress passed the NFA as a tax. With the tax at zero, there is nothing holding the registration scheme up.

The Judge entered a permanent injunction against ATF covering the plaintiffs, the members of the plaintiff organizations, and the customers of the plaintiff companies.

GOA and Gun Owners Foundation are plaintiffs, along with Silencer Shop Foundation, Palmetto State Armory, SilencerCo, B&T USA, FRAC, and 15 states.

August 12. DOJ let the clock run out.

The judge had paused his own order for seven days so the government could run to the Fifth Circuit.

They never went.

The pause expired and the injunction took effect.

August 13. Ninety-two years ended at one minute past midnight.

At Silencer Shop in Leander, Texas, GOA members Brandon Herrera and Wes Virdell legally took possession of unregistered suppressors with just a background check.

Rep. Andrew Clyde and GOA’s Erich Pratt were in the room.

These were the first lawful unregistered transfers since the NFA was enacted on June 26, 1934.

PRESSURE ON TWO FRONTS…

Rep. Clyde is leading a coalition in Congress pushing DOJ and ATF to apply the ruling nationwide instead of to plaintiffs alone.

The group is calling for DOJ & ATF to issue a rule that would formally rescind the challenged regulations, as they apply to untaxed firearms.

Here’s what we currently cannot tell you.

As of the writing of this email, we cannot tell you how the injunction applies to your particular situation.

Neither can ATF right now.

We asked for written guidance for our members and got nothing back, not even an acknowledgment that our letter arrived.

Until that changes, take questions about your own circumstances to a lawyer in your state.

P.S., we’ve partnered with our friends at CANIK to bring you a GOA 50th anniversary METE MC9.

The Mete MC9 Prime boasts an enhanced compensated barrel and slide with an integrated expansion chamber, delivering superior accuracy and reduced muzzle rise.

The design ensures unparalleled control, making follow up shots faster and more precise. Complementing this is the addition of Night sights.

The GOA anniversary addition CANIK METE MC9 includes two magazines and a GOA Challenge Coin.

Proceeds from the sales of this product go to supporting GOA in our mission to fight for the Second Amendment!

If you aren’t already, please consider becoming a GOA member so that we can fight on your behalf! And consider also making it a repeating yearly contribution so that you will always stay covered by our lawsuit injunctions. 

Florida’s gun owners get to celebrate the Second Amendment wins that happened during last night’s primary elections.

Why?

Because GOA was the only gun rights organization involved in this election. Not just the only group to endorse. GOA was the only gun rights organization that showed up at all to fight for the Second Amendment, PERIOD. And our members and supporters made that fight possible—standing with Florida gun owners to defend their rights at the ballot box.

GOA made sure Florida’s Republican primary was a race that put all of the candidates’ Second Amendment records under a bright spotlight — and the results speak for themselves.

Byron Donalds won.

GOA endorsed Donalds because his record from Tallahassee to Congress stood clearly above the rest — and Florida gun owners will now reap the reward.

In 2018, Donalds stood against Republican leadership and voted NO on the Parkland gun-control bill. Other candidates in this race, like Paul Renner, voted YES, helping enact the Under-21 Firearm Purchase Ban and Florida’s Red Flag law.

Jay Collins supported allowing law enforcement to bypass Florida’s firearm waiting period while leaving it in place for everyday Floridians.

All while Byron Donalds has called for the outright repeal of Florida’s firearm waiting periods altogether.

Donalds’ record speaks for itself:

Calling for the full repeal of the Parkland gun-control law

Wants Florida’s the Under-21 Firearm Purchase Ban repealed and backed GOA’s efforts in restoring the right of adults 18+ to carry openly or concealed

Wants to repeal Florida’s Red Flag law and the bump stock/FRT ban

Supported GOA’s push to fully legalize Open Carry

Publicly challenged then U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi over the government’s defense of the National Firearms Act

Supports making Florida a Second Amendment Sanctuary State

And he re-emphasized his commitment to the Second Amendment when GOA spoke with him.

Last night’s result drives it home: Florida gun owners won because GOA and its members refused to sit on the sidelines — and the candidate with the strongest Second Amendment record took the nomination.

This is a major victory for every Florida gun owner who demands no-compromise representation in Tallahassee.

In Liberty,

Luis Valdes
Florida State Director
Gun Owners of America
National Co-Chair
Fuerza 2A

To renew your GOA membership or to join for the first time, please click here.

Florida gun owners, Election Day is TODAY, Tuesday, August 18 — and it’s time to VOTE.

The future of our Second Amendment rights in Florida will be shaped by who shows up to the polls in this primary election.

At the top of the ticket, Gun Owners of America is backing Byron Donalds for Governor of Florida.

When Florida passed the Parkland gun-control law, Byron Donalds voted NO.

And he isn’t stopping there.

Byron Donalds wants to repeal the Parkland gun-control law in its entirety.

That’s the kind of leadership Florida gun owners deserve: not politicians who simply promise to slow down attacks on the Second Amendment, but leaders willing to roll back gun control and restore our rights.

Byron has earned an A+ GOA rating and a 100% pro-gun record.

Vote Byron Donalds for Governor TODAY.

But the fight for our rights doesn’t stop at the top of the ticket.

From Congress to statewide and legislative races, Florida voters have an opportunity to elect a strong slate of GOA-endorsed candidates who will fight for the Second Amendment.

SEND SECOND AMENDMENT FIGHTERS TO CONGRESS

In Florida’s 1st Congressional District, vote Jimmy Patronis. Patronis has fought government tracking of lawful firearm purchases, defended constitutional and open carry, and introduced the Firearm Freedom Act to repeal Florida’s machine-gun ban.

In FL-14, vote Mike Beltran, who has earned an A+ GOA rating and a 100% pro-gun record standing up for the Second Amendment and Florida gun owners.

In FL-3, vote Kat Cammack.

In FL-11, vote Carey Baker.

In FL-13, vote Anna Paulina Luna.

In FL-17, vote Greg Steube.

And in Florida’s 19th Congressional District, vote Catalina Lauf, who has earned an “A” rating from GOA for her strong commitment to the Second Amendment. Lauf has pledged to fight federal gun-control measures, opposed red-flag laws that lack due process, and called for rolling back regulations that infringe on the rights of law-abiding gun owners.

These congressional races matter. We need representatives in Washington who understand that the Second Amendment is not negotiable — and who won’t cave when our rights come under attack.

DEFEND THE SECOND AMENDMENT IN TALLAHASSEE

For Florida Chief Financial Officer, vote Blaise Ingoglia.

Ingoglia has defended the Second Amendment, voted against the Parkland gun-control legislation in 2018, and helped repeal Florida’s hurricane-related gun-sale ban in 2025.

And voters in Florida State House District 10 should support Marshall Rawson, a candidate who understands that the right to keep and bear arms protects something fundamental: your right to defend yourself and your family.

YOUR GOA VOTER GUIDE FOR AUGUST 18

Governor: Byron Donalds
U.S. Congress, FL-1: Jimmy Patronis
U.S. Congress, FL-3: Kat Cammack
U.S. Congress, FL-11: Carey Baker
U.S. Congress, FL-13: Anna Paulina Luna
U.S. Congress, FL-14: Mike Beltran
U.S. Congress, FL-17: Greg Steube
Florida CFO: Blaise Ingoglia
Florida House District 10: Marshall Rawson

Don’t assume someone else will cast the vote that protects your rights.

Make your plan. Get to the polls. Bring your family and friends.

Then cast your ballot for the candidates who will stand with Florida gun owners when it counts.

Vote GOA on August 18.

In Liberty,

Luis Valdes
Florida State Director
Gun Owners of America
National Co-Chair
Fuerza 2A

P.S. Primary elections can be decided by a small number of votes. Don’t sit this one out. Get to the polls TODAY and vote for GOA’s endorsed candidates on your ballot.

YOU ASKED, WE BUILT IT.

Since our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit” win, people have been joining GOA in numbers we have never seen.

So much so, that our payment processor crashed.

We understand the interest, because thanks to the ruling, GOA members are now protected from the registration requirements of the National Firearms Act for the first time in 92 years.

Many calls and emails have asked the same question, so we are acting on it.

We set up a corporate membership.

We did this so firearms dealers (FFLs) can be protected by our win as well, and get those previously regulated items to their customers who want them.

Click below for more information & to sign up!

When GOA wins an injunction, the relief usually covers our members.

Courts decide who counts as a member, and paying dues is one of the things they look at.

We have always treated Caliber Club supporters as GOA members and we will continue to do that, but the Caliber Club was never set up as a dues program for business entities.

Corporate membership fixes that.

If your business is a corporate member, its claim to coverage is a lot easier to prove.

Corporate membership will be renewed yearly. It also includes GOA membership for owners, officers, and employees of your business.

**If you are not an FFL yourself, tell your FFL.** The shop you buy from has the same questions you do, and this is built for them.

And before you go, one caution while all of this shakes out.

If you have specific questions about how the injunction applies to you or to your business, talk to a lawyer in your state.

We cannot give you legal advice about your own situation, and this is not the moment for anyone to be guessing.

We have asked the administration, ATF and DOJ for formal guidance for our members.

We have not gotten it.

We will keep pressing until we get answers, and you will hear from us the moment we do.

Are you signed up for a GOA membership?

Right now, this is one of the only ways to be protected against many of the provisions in the National Firearms Act.

GOA members will enjoy protection against the registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs and Silencers – although keep in mind that several states have their own restrictions which are not affected by the federal court’s ruling.

If you’re already a GOA member, please consider making a donation, because we’re not going to stop fighting until the rest of the NFA is dead and gone.

But for now, secure your coverage from the registration requirements by becoming a member or donating at the link here!

Democrats hope to press the “affordability” issue in this year’s midterm election season, but there’s one potentially glaring problem for them, as illustrated by our friends at Unleash Prosperity…    

What: Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed a new federal lawsuit, The Firing Pin v. James, after New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill S9005C that bans so-called “convertible pistols,” semiautomatic handguns with a cruciform trigger bar. The ban applies against nearly every Glock and Glock-style pistol on the market. FPC is seeking a declaration holding the law unconstitutional, an injunction against the enforcement of the ban, and other relief.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 13, 2026 

GOA Members to Make History with First Suppressor Transfers Without NFA Registration Since 1934

Leander, TX — Gun Owners of America (GOA), along with lead plaintiff Silencer Shop, made history tonight as GOA members Brandon Herrera and Wes Virdell lawfully acquired suppressors without complying with the currently enjoined registration requirements of the National Firearms Act of 1934.

The transfers took place at Silencer Shop’s new storefront in Leander, Texas immediately after midnight on August 13th. Representative Andrew Clyde (GA-09) and GOA Senior Vice President Erich Pratt were also in attendance.

GOA spearheaded the repeal of a 1934 law regulating suppressors and short-barreled firearms in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. That milestone would not have been possible without Congressman Clyde’s tireless efforts to dismantle the NFA and President Trump’s signature. The passage of this GOA-backed provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act paved the way for GOA’s One Big Beautiful Lawsuit which has now culminated in a federal court order currently enjoining ATF enforcement of NFA registration requirements for suppressors and short-barreled firearms, and “any other weapons.”

Previously, GOA, Silencer Shop, Herrera, and Virdell formally notified the Department of Justice and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives of their intent to complete the transfers without NFA registration. Because the ATF did not object, Silencer Shop transferred the unregistered suppressors to Herrera and Virdell in accordance with all other applicable federal and state laws.

This marks the first time since the NFA was enacted on June 26, 1934, that Americans can lawfully acquire suppressors without complying with the federal registration scheme. Our victory went into effect at 12:01 A.M. CT and we notified ATF and DOJ that we intended to conduct the first unregistered suppressor transfer in 92 years.

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

“GOA fought to crush the NFA’s unconstitutional restrictions through the One Big Beautiful Bill, but we didn’t stop there. We promised to keep fighting until these restrictions were gone, and now our members are putting the historic victory into action. The era of federal registration for constitutionally protected arms must end.”

Brandon Herrera, Candidate for Texas Congressional District 23, issued the following statement: 

“I’m happy to once again be working with Gun Owners of America to help be the tip of the spear fighting for gun owners, constitutional rights, and civil rights of not only Texans, but all Americans.”

Dave Matheny, Founder and CEO of Silencer Shop, issued the following statement: 

“We couldn’t be more excited for our customers, dealers, and the future of the Second Amendment. This is a huge victory, but we still have a long way to go; and Silencer Shop will continue to lead the way along-side GOA, FRAC, ASA, Silencer Shop Foundation, and the many other groups who are working to unwind the NFA.  We’re truly humbled to be part of such a monumental event.”

Lauren Spivey, CEO of Silencer Shop Foundation, issued the following statement: 

“This win belongs to the people and customers who made it possible. The Silencer Shop Foundation is funded entirely by supporters who believe law-abiding Americans deserve to exercise their Second Amendment rights, and their support let us take this fight to the ATF and win a strong ruling from the court. We’re proud of what we’ve done together, and we’ll keep working to ensure all lawful Americans are protected under this ruling.”

Jamin McCallum, Founder and CEO of Palmetto State Armory, issued the following statement: 

“Today marks more than the first NFA-free suppressor transfer under this injunction, it marks the moment years of fighting became real for the American people. We’re proud to have stood alongside Gun Owners of America and others who made this victory possible, and we’ll continue fighting to expand freedom and defend the rights of everyday Americans.”

Wes Virdell, Member of the Texas House of Representatives, representing District 53, issued the following statement: 

“It’s hard to believe we have moved the needle so far. What was once considered unachievable is now a reality, because of Gun Owners of America and Silencer Shop. GOA never gave up the fight to get here. I am grateful to be a part of this history happening right before our very eyes.”

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization representing over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA-  

TELL THE WHITE HOUSE: DON’T LET DOJ APPEAL OUR WIN! We won our case, but DOJ may appeal. Let’s secure our win and make the “most pro-2A” Department of Justice walk the walk…

We just won our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit,” against the registration requirements of the NFA at the district level in Texas.

President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” into law, and he trumpeted how this bill reduced taxes on SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, & Suppressors to $0.

But, the registration requirements remained.

So, GOA sued.

And now, we have our ruling.

In the ruling, the Judge declared that the registration requirements on those NFA items that Trump’s bill reduced to $0, are unconstitutional.

But, DOJ still has a few days to appeal the case.

GOA members can help to ensure that doesn’t happen by calling the White House and urging President Trump to order DOJ to not appeal.

If we generate tens of thousands of calls into the White House, that will only strengthen the President’s hand so that he can rein in the career attorneys at the DOJ.

President Trump has delivered some major victories for the Second Amendment. Now he has a chance to go even further by protecting what he fought for and signed into law in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

This is an opportunity to deliver one of the most meaningful Second Amendment victories in decades.

Since this Department of Justice wants to be remembered as the “most pro-Second Amendment” DOJ in history, let’s make them walk the walk instead of just talking the talk.

Call the White House and urge them to preserve the victory in the case, Silencer Shop Foundation [and GOA] v. ATF.

A PRO 2A DOJ WOULD NOT APPEAL THIS WIN.

The Department of Justice has another chance to prove that they mean what they say when they proclaim that they’re the “most pro-2A” DOJ in history.

But as we know with Bureaucrats, they respond to one thing, and one thing only.

Pressure.

With the midterm elections right around the corner, Republicans should be asking themselves whether their actions will energize—or suppress—their base.

Appealing this case could have massive consequences for the election.

If the DOJ appeals, gun owners will be justifiably frustrated with a Justice Department that touts it’s pro-2A record, yet continues to fight in favor of gun registration.

Those same gun owners may not turn out to vote. And if that happens, then gun owners will once again be on defense, as Congress will start pumping out all kinds of 2A restrictions.

On the other hand, if the DOJ does not appeal, gun owners will know that President Trump and the Justice Department—under newly confirmed AG Todd Blanche—will stand up for the Second Amendment.

That means more gun owners showing up at the polls.

That’s why we’re asking all GOA members to call the White House, and let them know that the DOJ must not appeal this case.

Clicking the red button below will call the White House’s comment line, where you can make your voice heard.

Let’s flood the phone lines and make sure the President knows gun owners will stand with him, if he stands up and protects our case!

Alternatively, if you are on desktop, you can call the White House at: 202-456-1111

Urge the White House to preserve the victory in the case, Silencer Shop Foundation [and GOA] v. ATF.

This is a rare moment where a single phone call can make a real difference. Please take a few minutes to call and ensure the Department of Justice does not appeal this case.

Let’s secure this victory and give gun owners the biggest gun rights win in US history!

Of course, GOA won’t stop fighting until the rest of the NFA is dead and gone.

But for now, secure your coverage from the registration requirements by becoming a member or donating at the link below!

TELL YOUR SENATORS, DON’T LET DOJ APPEAL OUR WIN! We won our case, but DOJ may appeal. Let’s secure our win and tell the “most pro-2A” Department of Justice to walk the walk…

We just won our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit,” against the registration requirements of the NFA at the district level in Texas.

This is quite possibly the largest victory against the National Firearms Act in it’s 90 year history.

The court limited our victory to GOA members, and other named plaintiffs in the lawsuit, so if you’re not currently a member now is the time to sign up! 

But the fight isn’t over yet. DOJ still has a few days to appeal the case.

Since this Department of Justice claims to be the “most pro-Second Amendment” DOJ in history, let’s make them walk the walk instead of just talking the talk.

A PRO 2A DOJ WOULD NOT APPEAL THIS WIN.

The Department of Justice has another chance to prove that they mean what they say when they proclaim that they’re the “most pro-2A” DOJ in history.

But as we know with Bureaucrats, they respond to one thing, and one thing only.

Pressure.

Right now, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is up for Senate confirmation.

That gives your senator unique, time-sensitive leverage to demand he commit to not appealing this decision before his confirmation vote happens. Once he’s confirmed, that leverage is gone for good.

We’ve already written the email for you. All you need to do is click below, and it will go straight to your senators, urging them to press Blanche on this issue and hold him accountable to gun owners like you. 

This is a rare moment where a single email can make a real difference. Please take 30 seconds right now to send it before the window closes.

Let’s secure this victory and give gun owners the biggest gun rights win in US history!

Of course, GOA won’t stop fighting until the rest of the NFA is dead and gone.

But for now, secure your coverage from the registration requirements by becoming a member or donating at the link below!

P.S. If both of your Senators are Democrats, you can get the most leverage right now by calling the White House and urging the President to demand that Todd Blanche refuse to appeal this great 2A victory.
 
You can call the President at 202-456-1111. Urge him to preserve the victory in the case, Silencer Shop Foundation [and GOA] v. ATF.

WE WON OUR CASE AGAINST THE NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT! Thanks to GOA’s “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit” a federal judge has struck down the registration requirements on certain NFA items…

We just won our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit,” against the registration requirements of the NFA at the district level in Texas.

This is quite possibly the largest victory against the National Firearms Act in it’s 90 year history.

The court limited our victory to GOA members, and other named plaintiffs in the lawsuit, so if you’re not currently a member now is the time to sign up! 

And, if you are a member click below to donate to help support this lawsuit, because the fight isn’t over yet!

WE WON. WHAT’S NEXT?

We just won our “One Big Beautiful Lawsuit,” against the registration requirements of the NFA at the district level in Texas. 

A huge thank you to our partners and co-plaintiffs who made this victory possible: SilencerShop, SilencerShop Foundation, Palmetto State Armory, Silencer Co, B&T, FRAC, and the 15 Pro Gun states who also signed on!  

In the decision, the Judge limited the injunction in this case just to members of the organizational plaintiffs, including Gun Owners of America, and the plaintiffs and their customers in the case itself.  

While we were fighting for a nationwide injunction, the court’s current order covers only the plaintiffs in the case and their respective members.

So if you’re not already a member of GOA, we highly recommend you join today at gunowners.org/join.

First, the ruling creates a permanent injunction on the registration requirements of the NFA for these untaxed firearms, although the decision has been stayed for seven days.

That means that the registration requirements for SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, and Silencers will soon be unenforceable by the Department of Justice and the Federal Government at large against any of the plaintiffs or their members.

The Judge in our case said that the registration requirement was unconstitutional because the 0$ tax stamp raised no revenue.

Because Congress originally wrote the NFA under the Taxing power only, failing this test means the law now oversteps Congress’s authority to require registration of these firearms.

This is a quickly developing situation, and we’ll keep you updated as to what happens next!

For now, secure your coverage from the registration requirements by becoming a member or donating at the link below!

Federal Court Rules Key National Firearms Act Restrictions Are Unconstitutional in GOA Lawsuit 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 5, 2026 

SAN ANGELO, TX — Gun Owners of America (GOA) and fellow plaintiffs scored a major win today. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas ruled that key National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) restrictions are unconstitutional for untaxed firearms and permanently blocked the ATF from enforcing them against the plaintiffs, their members, and their customers. 

The lawsuit was brought by GOA, Gun Owners Foundation, Silencer Shop Foundation, Palmetto State Armory, SilencerCo, B&T USA, the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, individual plaintiff Brady Wetz, and a coalition of 15 pro-gun states: Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. 

Judge James Wesley Hendrix held that Congress wiped out the constitutional basis for federal gun registration when it zeroed the transfer and making taxes on NFA items in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. The court rejected the government’s attempt to save the regulations under the Commerce Clause. 

“The challenged NFA provisions are unconstitutional. Congress’s choice to eliminate the transfer and making taxes matters, and the defendants cannot save the NFA’s regulatory scheme by referring to a power that Congress never invoked. Efforts to render the NFA constitutional must come from Congress, not this Court.” — Judge James Wesley Hendrix 

The injunction stops the ATF from enforcing federal gun registration requirements, Form 1 and Form 4 applications, fingerprinting, and photography mandates against the protected parties. The court stayed the order for seven days so the Department of Justice can seek appellate review if it chooses to do so. 

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

“This is a historic victory for the Second Amendment. The federal government keep its registry of guns after Congress has eliminated the gun tax. The court correctly recognized that the ATF cannot continue enforcing the NFA’s unconstitutional restrictions against law-abiding Americans. GOA will never stop fighting to protect the right to keep and bear arms.”

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

“Last year, GOA worked with Congress and President Trump to eliminate a nearly 100-year-old tax on suppressors and short-barreled firearms. Today’s decision affirms what GOA members have been saying all along: the archaic National Firearms Act of 1934 and its federal gun registry is unconstitutional.” 

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization representing over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center. 

-GOA-

Read the full case information on the Gun Owners Foundation website here.