Pro-gun rights

GOA and GOF Appeal California’s Orwellian Surveillance Law to Ninth Circuit 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 29, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) and Gun Owners Foundation (GOF) have filed their opening brief in the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, challenging California’s sweeping surveillance mandate on firearm dealers. This appeal is part of the ongoing case against Cal. Penal Code Section 26806, which forces all FFLs—including home-based dealers—to install 24/7 video and audio recording systems to surveil customers, and then retain that data for warrantless inspection by the state. 

The law effectively turns lawful dealers into unpaid government agents, violating First, Fourth, and Fifth Amendment rights by chilling speech and association, imposing unlawful searches, and commandeering private property without compensation or cause. 

GOA and GOF are joined in the appeal by Gun Owners of California (GOC) and multiple affected FFLs who object to California’s attempt to turn every gun store into a state surveillance hub. 

GOA, GOF, and GOC remain committed to challenging radical laws like this one and will continue fighting in the courts to ensure that the rights of gun owners and dealers are protected without compromise. 

Sam Paredes, Executive Director of Gun Owners of California, issued the following statement on behalf of the Board of Directors for Gun Owners of America: 

“California’s surveillance regime treats law-abiding citizens like criminals and weaponizes government power against the firearms community. We’re appealing this unconstitutional overreach because freedom doesn’t survive when people live under constant government surveillance.” 

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

“This law requires what is quite literally a 21st century Orwellian telescreen.  California forces gun dealers to record private conversations, including within their own homes, and then hand them over to the government without a warrant. That’s not just invasive—it’s a direct attack on a number of constitutional rights. GOA and GOF are proud to lead this appeal and stand with every American who refuses to be tracked and silenced.” 

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- 

As many of our readers are likely aware, on April 7, 2025 ATF rescinded the Zero Tolerance Policy that was implemented under the Biden Administration. Under that policy, ATF classified certain types of violations found during compliance inspections as "zero tolerance" and would issue a Notice of Revocation, no matter the number or circumstances around … Continue reading ATF Publishes New Agency Direction and Invites Some Revoked FFL’s to Reapply →

GOA Mobilizes Members to Support DOJ Rule Restoring Gun Rights for Non-Violent Offenders 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 28, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) today called on its members and supporters nationwide to take immediate action in support of a proposed rule by the Trump Department of Justice that would restore Second Amendment rights to countless Americans unjustly barred under the decades-old “Schumer Amendment.” 

Enacted in 1992, the Schumer Amendment defunded the only federal process available (other than an unlikely pardon) to federally restore firearm rights, effectively imposing a lifetime ban on gun ownership for individuals with certain non-violent convictions or temporary mental health commitments—even if such persons pose no ongoing threat and have long since been rehabilitated. For over 30 years, this provision blocked the ATF from processing any rights restoration requests, denying due process and violating the constitutional rights of countless Americans. 

Now, for the first time in over three decades, the DOJ promulgated a rule that would reassign the authority to restore gun rights away from the ATF and back to the Attorney General and Department of Justice. 

GOA, Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), the Tennessee Firearms Association (TFA), and the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition (FRAC) submitted a joint comment which outlines the legal foundation for restoring rights, noting: 

• That Congress, through § 925(c), expressly authorized the Attorney General to grant relief to individuals who are not dangerous and whose restoration is “in the public interest”; 

• That the Schumer amendment’s decades-long funding blockade represented a constitutional abuse, unjustly blocking citizens from reclaiming a core right; 

• That restoring this process is critical to treating the Second Amendment as a first-class right, not subject to the whims of unelected agency officials; 

•  That non-violent, non-dangerous persons have never historically been stripped of their right to keep and bear arms in this country’s tradition. 

GOA has provided a pre-written comment that its members can submit directly to the DOJ during the public comment period: 

“I strongly support the Department of Justice’s proposed rule to allow for federal restoration of gun rights pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 925(c). It is not permissible to permanently deny millions of Americans the right to keep and bear arms, when many of them were convicted decades ago of relatively nonserious and entirely nonviolent crimes, or temporarily received mental health treatment and have long since recovered. Yet since the Schumer Amendment took effect in 1992, untold thousands have been denied due process and prohibited from exercising their Second Amendment rights. I urge the DOJ to move forward and fully implement this rule through the creation of a formal process to ensure speedy rights restoration.” 

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

“This is a monumental breakthrough after decades of injustice. GOA has long fought for the restoration of constitutional rights stripped by Chuck Schumer’s amendment, and the Trump administration’s rule is a powerful step in the right direction. We urge our members to speak up and flood the DOJ with support.” 

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

“Over the years, GOA has received countless calls and letters from honest Americans pleading for help to restore their Second Amendment right to protect themselves and their loved ones. This rule finally reestablishes the federal gun rights restoration statute which has been defunded and blocked by Senator Schumer for decades. We are proud to support this reform and will be activating our grassroots to ensure the DOJ hears the support of the American people.” 

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- 

Todd Starnes to Speak at GOALS 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 28, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that nationally syndicated radio host and best-selling author Todd Starnes will be speaking at the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10 in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

Known for his unapologetic defense of faith, family, and freedom, Starnes has been a leading voice in conservative media for over two decades. His bold commentary and deep commitment to constitutional values have made him a trusted figure among grassroots patriots and Second Amendment supporters across the country. 

GOALS 2025 will feature more than 120,000 square feet of exhibitor space, training sessions, legal briefings, and powerhouse speakers—all uniting under one mission: defending the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. 

Todd Starnes issued the following statement: 

“I’m honored to speak at GOA’s GOALS Convention—an incredible gathering of patriots who aren’t afraid to stand up and defend the Second Amendment. These folks are the backbone of our movement, and I’m fired up to join them. As a gun-toting, Bible-clinging son of a Baptist, this is my kind of crowd. Can’t wait to shake hands, share stories, and stand shoulder to shoulder with true defenders of liberty.” 

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

“Todd Starnes brings exactly the kind of unapologetic, fearless energy that defines the GOALS Summit. He’s a true champion of American values, and we’re proud to have him standing with us in the fight for the Second Amendment.” 

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

“Todd has never backed down from telling the truth, even when it’s unpopular. That kind of integrity is rare—and exactly why we’re excited to welcome him to GOALS 2025. Our attendees are in for something special.” 

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- 

Homeschool and 2A Education: John and Rebekah Lovell to Host Featured Panel at GOALS 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 27, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that John Lovell, founder and CEO of the Warrior Poet Society, and his wife, Rebekah Lovell, will host a featured panel at the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10 in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

The panel, titled “Homeschool and 2A Education,” will explore how families can reclaim their children’s education, reject failed institutions, and raise the next generation to value faith, freedom, and the right to bear arms. 

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

“The same system that tries to erase your rights is the one shaping your children’s worldview. John and Rebekah are empowering families to push back—and to raise kids who won’t trade liberty for comfort. This is exactly the kind of bold leadership GOALS was built to showcase.” 

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

“The Lovells are not just teaching math and reading—they’re forming patriots. Their example is helping parents across America rediscover their God-given authority and raise a generation that isn’t afraid to speak truth or stand for freedom.” 

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, multiple gun bills advanced in the State Senate, either coming out of Committee or advancing on to third reading. In this case, a majority of the bills moving forward are anti-gun.

As always, the coalition of anti-gunners in the New York legislature are trying their hardest to erode your Second Amendment rights. We need you to send a message to your legislators ASAP to outline that their 2A infringements are unwelcome.

The list of bills can be seen below:

• NY S 4277 – A complete ban on 50 caliber firearms AND forcible buyback for current 50. caliber firearm owners. This bill advanced to third reading on May 22nd.
• NY S 3385 – A mandatory safe storage bill. This bill advanced to third reading on May 22nd.
• NY S 399 – Would ban any semi-automatic pistol that COULD be converted into a machine gun upon the installation of a ‘pistol converter.’ This legislation is specifically targeting firearms made by Glock and would outright ban the future sale of their pistols on the idea that they are simply capable of receiving fire-rate altering devices. This bill advanced to third reading on May 22nd.
• NY S 362 – Establishes a 10 day waiting period for the purchase of any firearm. This bill advanced to third reading on May 22nd.
• NY A 544 – Requires police officers to take temporary custody of firearms when responding to reports of family violence. As always, these bills are infringements on due process rights. This bill was amended on third reading in the Assembly on May 21st.
• NY A 1191 – Allows the division of criminal justice services to certify the technological viability of “personalized handguns” and to establish requirements related to the sale of “personalized handguns.” (Personalized handguns referring to pistols or revolvers that could be programmed to function only when activated by the firearm’s lawful owner or other authorized user.) This bill has passed the Assembly and was referred to the Senate Finance Committee on May 14th.
• NY A 8406 – Expands powers to seize firearms in cases involving domestic violence and protection orders. A 8406 allows local criminal courts to issue orders to seize firearms even when family courts are not in session. This is a violation of due process rights as gun owners subject to such orders could lose their firearms without their day in court. This bill was referred to the Assembly Codes Committee on May 13th.
• NY S 1985 – Requires police officers to take temporary custody of firearms when responding to reports of family violence. Similar to the bill above, this violates due process rights. This bill passed the Senate and was referred to the Assembly Government Operations Committee on May 13th.

New York’s Legislature is scheduled to adjourn on June 12th, so it’s important that we maintain pressure against these bills. Using the form above, send a message to your legislator to defend the Second Amendment!

Last night, the House Rules Committee amended H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, to include Sec. 2 of the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act—fully removing suppressors from the National Firearms Act of 1934.

GOA fully supports Sec. 112029 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Elimination of the NFA’s unconstitutional excise tax & registration of suppressors is a massive victory for the 2nd Amendment. Suppressors will now be treated, de facto, as firearms subject to a NICS background check at point of sale.

But now, GOA is calling on the Senate to also protect short-barreled firearms and reduce the entire NFA tax to $0!

Passing the tax repeal language in the SHORT Act would prevent the weaponization of the National Firearms Act against gun owners. When the Biden administration attempted to ban 40 million pistols equipped with stabilizing braces, they used the 1934 NFA’s barrel length restrictions as justification for charging millions of Americans with felonies despite the fact that these accessories were approved by the ATF for over a decade.

Even Don. Jr. was forced to register his short-barreled firearms to avoid being raided by the Biden ATF! President Trump ran on protecting gun owners from the Biden’s ban on short-barreled firearms. Now, the Senate must help deliver on this campaign promise to gun owners.

Listen to President Trump’s campaign promise to protect pistol braced weapons and watch Don Jr. unwillingly register his short-barreled firearms on a livestream on this episode of the Minute Man Moment.

Repealing NFA Taxes Is Byrd Compliant 

Following the House’s passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on May 22nd, the Senate has a historic opportunity to end nearly 100 years of unconstitutional gun control of common use items such as suppressors and short-barreled firearms during the upcoming budget reconciliation process. The Constitutional Hearing Protection Act and Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today Act are written with Byrd compliant language to deliver this victory.

The language is Byrd compliant because first and foremost, the National Firearms Act’s primary function is as a tax. The Supreme Court in Sonzinsky v. US (1937) explicitly ruled that the NFA didn’t cease to be a tax simply because it has secondary policy implications.

To rule that the tax repeal language from the HPA and SHORT Act violate the Byrd Rule, the Senate Parliamentarian—who is a nonpartisan bureaucrat—would have to partisanly hold that the Supreme Court is wrong and that the NFA is primarily a regulation and incidentally a tax.

Also, every subsequent federal court has also agreed that the NFA is primarily an exercise of Congress’ power to tax and that’s why it’s not unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. 

• “Insofar as the statute is a valid exercise of the taxing power, the fact that it incidentally accomplishes goals other than raising revenue does not undermine its constitutionality.”i 

• “… it is well-settled that § 5861(d) is constitutional because it is “part of the web of regulation aiding enforcement of the transfer tax provision in § 5811.”ii 

• “And on its face, the NFA is a taxing scheme. The statute collects occupational and excise taxes from businesses and transactions involving listed firearms—which include short-barreled rifles, silencers, and destructive devices.”iii 

• “Having required payment of a transfer tax and registration as an aid in collection of that tax, Congress under the taxing power may reasonably impose a penalty on possession of an unregistered firearm.”iv 

• “Rush recognizes that §5861(d) mandates compliance with the NFA’s ‘taxation and registration’ requirements—requirements that have been upheld as a valid exercise of legislative taxing authority.”v

Removing these unconstitutional NFA restrictions through the reconciliation process is possible as it is primarily a change to the tax code. Such changes which strike and insert in the tax code are regularly found to be Byrd compliant (Example Thune Amendment). Additionally, House Republicans proposed to strike an excise tax on tanning salon beds, and no one raised Byrd concerns with that.

In fact, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes a number of amendments to federal excise taxes (as reported to the Rules Committee):

• 111106. Repeal of excise tax on indoor tanning services.
• 112021. Modification of excise tax on investment income of certain private colleges and universities.
• 112105. Excise tax on remittance transfers.

And prior reconciliation bills such as the Inflation Reduction Act have also amended excise taxes too:

• 10201. Excise Tax On Repurchase of Corporate Stock.
• 11003. Excise Tax Imposed on Drug Manufacturers During Noncompliance Periods.
• 13101. Deficiency procedures not to apply [to] certain excise taxes.
• 13201. Coordination With Credit Against Excise Tax.
• 13204. Termination of Excise Tax Credit for Hydrogen.

Congress’ claimed authority to regulate NFA “firearms” has always been a taxation regime. Without the tax, there is no mechanism to impose restrictions on the possession of these firearms. As part of the reconciliation process, it should therefore be possible to remove the $200 tax stamp and use conforming amendments to remove all documents related to the collection of this tax—like the registration forms.

Sec. 112029 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and GOA’s proposed short-barrel protections are Byrd compliant. But in any case, the Supreme Court has already ruled that the NFA is primarily a tax, so the Senate must not take “no” for an answer.

The Budget Reconciliation process presents a historic opportunity for Congress to remove archaic and arbitrary National Firearms Act (NFA) restrictions that have long infringed on the constitutional rights of Americans. Including the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act and the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today Act into a bill which can pass with a simple majority would deliver an amazing victory for this administration and gun owners.

These unconstitutional regulations on suppressors and braced firearms have long been a priority for pro-gun voters to be removed. Delivering these policies would be a massive victory for the administration and Congress—showing commitment to the right to keep and bear arms.

According to the most recent polling of GOA members, over 90% of the 16,000+ respondents considered both the HPA and SHORT Act to be priority items to pass this Congress. This would raise morale and favorability before the midterm elections among gun owners, who, as President Trump consistently pointed out on the campaign trail, often do not vote.

Please reach out with any questions or if you would like to help GOA secure this incredible victory for gun owners.

[i] United States v. Gresham, 118 F.3d 258, 262 (5th Cir. 1997).
[ii] United States v. Gresham, 118 F.3d 258, 262 (5th Cir. 1997).
[iii] United States v. Cox, 906 F.3d 1170, 1179 (10th Cir. 2018).
[iv] United States v. Lim, 444 F.3d 910, 913 (7th Cir. 2006).
[v] United States v. Rush, 130 F.4th 633 (7th Cir. 2025).

GOA Applauds House for Suppressor Deregulation, Urges Senate to Finish the Job for Short Barreled Firearms 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 23, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) today applauded the inclusion of the Constitutional Hearing Protection Act (CHPA) in the latest budget reconciliation package, which repeals the $200 suppressor tax and registration—thus removing one of the most senseless burdens on law-abiding gun owners. 

This long-awaited win will make suppressors more accessible for millions of Americans, improve hearing safety for shooters, and mark a significant rollback of federal overreach under the archaic and unconstitutional National Firearms Act of 1934. 

GOA thanks Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) for his leadership in championing the CHPA and fighting to include it in reconciliation. However, GOA continues to push for the full repeal of the NFA’s short-barreled rifle tax and registration provisions through the inclusion of Sec. 2 of the SHORT Act in the Senate’s budget reconciliation package. 

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

“Eliminating the suppressor registration and tax is a major step forward for liberty and safety. This would not have happened without Rep. Clyde’s resolve and strategic leadership. Gun owners have one less unconstitutional hurdle to worry about—but we’re not done. The Senate needs to deliver on President Trump’s campaign promise to protect gun owners from another ban on short-barreled firearms like the Biden Pistol Brace Ban.” 

Aidan Johnston, GOA’s Director of Federal Affairs, added: 

“Gun Owners of America fully supports Sec. 112029 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The elimination of the NFA’s unconstitutional excise tax & registration of suppressors is a massive victory for the Second Amendment. Now, GOA is calling on the Senate to also protect short-barreled firearms!” 

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. (May 22, 2025) – Today, Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) issued the following statement: