Gun Owners of America

You may have heard about HR 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which would ensure that concealed carry permits are recognized nationwide in a manner similar to driver’s licenses.

Recently, 24 state attorneys general signed a letter encouraging Congress to pass HR 38.

But did you know that our Attorney General Jason Miyares is NOT one of the signatories on the letter?

This is a missed opportunity. During his campaign, Attorney General Miyares claimed support for the Second Amendment and pledged to protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners. Supporting HR 38 would be consistent with those promises.

So, please use the form above to send a message to Jason Miyares, urging him to write his own letter of support for HR 38.

GOALS to Host 2A Defender Student Luncheon with Special Guest Brandon Herrera 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 2, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce the 2A Defender Student Luncheon, hosted by Gun Owners Foundation (GOF) and sponsored by the Leadership Institute, as part of the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS). The event will be held on Saturday, August 9th at 12:00 PM in the Marriott Ballroom in Knoxville, Tennessee. 

Open to high school seniors and college students, this luncheon will equip the next generation of Second Amendment advocates with the community, resources, and confidence to stand up against the anti-gun echo chambers dominating college campuses. Tickets are $15, and the event features meme contests, prizes, and a keynote address from Brandon Herrera—a leading 2A voice known for his fearless commentary and viral content. 

Clint Morgan, Co-Chair of 2A Defenders, issued the following statement: 

“This luncheon is about building a community of young 2A warriors who won’t back down. Students today are surrounded by anti-gun propaganda on campus; but they aren’t alone. With Brandon Herrera lighting the fire and peers standing shoulder to shoulder, this is going to be a defining moment for a new generation of defenders.” 

Sam Paredes, on behalf of the Board of Directors for Gun Owners Foundation, issued the following statement: 

“Gun Owners Foundation is proud to partner with GOA and the Leadership Institute to support the next wave of pro-2A activists. Events like this help cultivate courage, clarity, and community, and we’re excited to welcome students into the movement with energy and purpose.” 

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 Position Lead Case for Supreme Court Review of AR-15 Bans Following Denial in Snope v. Brown 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 3, 2025 

Washington, D.C. — Gun Owners of America (GOA) and Gun Owners Foundation (GOF) today responded to the Supreme Court’s denial of certiorari in Snope v. Brown, a legal challenge to Maryland’s ban on AR-15s. 

While the Court declined to take up the case at this time, Justice Brett Kavanaugh issued a significant statement noting that the Supreme Court “should address [these] issues in the next Term or two.” GOA and GOF had filed an amicus brief in the Snope case, urging the Court to hear it—and we are deeply disappointed by the denial. As Justice Thomas warned, until the Court is “vigilant in enforcing” the Second Amendment, the right to keep and bear arms will remain “a second-class right.” 

It is reckless and dangerous for the Court to allow tyrannical AR-15 bans to stand for even another year or two. Millions of law-abiding Americans are being stripped of their rights while courts below defy Bruen and invent new tests to uphold unconstitutional laws. 

Fortunately, GOA and GOF are not waiting idly. Our legal team is now litigating FFLs of Illinois v. Pritzker, where we secured a permanent injunction against Illinois’ sweeping rifle and magazine bans. That case is currently on appeal in the Seventh Circuit and stands as one of the best-positioned challenges to be taken up by the Supreme Court. When the justices are ready, we’ll be there with the strongest possible case. In the meantime, GOA will continue to lobby Congress, the Trump Administration, and state governments to protect and restore the Second Amendment. 

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

“While we are disappointed the Court did not take up Snope now, Justice Kavanaugh’s statement shows that the justices know the constitutionality of AR-15 bans must be resolved—and soon. GOA and GOF are proud to be leading the charge. When the Court is ready, our FFLs of Illinois case will be at the front of the line, perfectly positioned to deliver a knockout blow to these unconstitutional bans.” 

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

“The fight doesn’t end with Snope—it accelerates. We’re grateful to have Justice Kavanaugh reaffirm that the High Court will soon address these issues, and GOA is more than ready. We’re preparing for final disposition in a case that hopefully will force the Supreme Court to defend the plain meaning of the Second Amendment. This is our moment, and gun owners can count on us to lead.” 

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- 



The so-called “Assault Weapons” ban which was previously stalled in the House and Senate, has returned AGAIN in the House Judiciary Committee on June 3rd!

We need you to hit the phonelines immediately to DEMAND your legislators strike down H 5436.

When speaking to a Representative or their staff, you can say something like this:

“Hello, my name is [NAME] and I’m from [TOWN/CITY]. I’m a member of Gun Owners of America and a Rhode Island voter and I encourage you to vote NO on H 5436 when it comes up for a vote on June 3rd. Gun Owners of America will keep me informed of how you vote.”

The list of members on the Rhode Island House Judiciary Committee can be seen here:

Chairman Robert Craven – (401) 294-2222

First Vice Chair Carol Hagan McEntee – (401) 222-4435

Second Vice Chair Jason Knight – (401) 903-9804

Representative Edith H. Ajello – (401) 222-2296

Representative José F. Batista – (401) 533-2226

Representative David A. Bennett – (401) 480-4647

Representative Justine A. Caldwell – (401) 212-7320

Representative Julie A. Casimiro – (401) 474-7961

Representative Arthur J. Corvese – (401) 353-8695

Representative Cherie L. Cruz – (401) 222-2447

Representative Matthew S. Dawson – (401) 258-3660

Representative Leonela Felix – (401) 369-5364

Representative Marie A. Hopkins – (401) 203-1517

Representative Thomas E. Noret – (401) 641-0813

Representative David J. Place – (401) 286-2088

Reach out to your legislators immediately using the form above and demand that they STOP H 5436!

Late in the evening on Thursday, HB 7042 was passed by the Senate, and sent to Governor Lamont’s desk.

Debate on HB 7042 was prolonged for hours as Senate Republicans fought their hardest to review every aspect of this bill and amend it further to provide protections for gun owners, gun stores, and firearm manufacturers.

These amendments would have protected gun owners in a variety of ways. One amendment aimed to prevent anti-gunners from filing frivolous lawsuits intended to bankrupt firearm businesses in Connecticut. A different amendment would have provided financial relief to firearm industry members who had prevailed in their court case in the form of covering costs and reasonable attorney’s fees.

Another proposed amendment would have added language to ensure that only the individuals who had ‘actual knowledge’ that they were selling firearms to people at substantial risk of using those firearms to harm themselves or others, would be held accountable—replacing the previous wording that would have held gun stores and firearm manufacturers liable for legally selling a firearm to someone who later went on to commit a crime with it.

Unfortunately, these weren’t the only amendments voted down. Every single amendment provided by the Republicans to protect the Second Amendment was rejected. The version of the bill that advanced was the exact same version as the one we alerted on previously.

As a reminder from those previous alerts, the details of HB 7042 are below:

HB 7042 would outright ban some of the most commonly owned firearms in Connecticut on the basis that those models of firearms are simply capable of receiving fire-rate altering devices.

HB 7042 was written to allow for civil lawsuits to be brought against firearm industry members “who fail to exercise ‘reasonable control’ over their product.” What this language means is that firearm industry members ranging from firearms manufacturers to mom-and-pop gun stores could be deemed responsible for the actions of other people outside their company, who commit crimes with a firearm they’ve manufactured or sold. This is a clear attempt to hold firearms industry members liable for actions that criminals commit.

HB 7042 also adds certain misdemeanor convictions that occur in other jurisdictions to the list of offenses that disqualify a person from being issued long gun and handgun eligibility certificates and handgun permits.

There is also including wording in the bill that states:

“A firearm industry member shall establish, implement and enforce reasonable controls,” with “reasonable controls” meaning “procedures, acts and practices that are designed, implemented and enforced to … prevent the sale or distribution in this state of a firearm industry product that is designed in a manner that is reasonably foreseeable to promote conversion of a legal firearm industry product into an illegal firearm industry product.”

Using this section of the language, Representative Stafstrom argued on the House floor that Glock could have known about “design flaws” that would have allowed for attachment of devices that increase the rate of fire when Glock originally designed their pistol, and after the passage of this bill, Glock would possibly need to alter their design to prevent any future attachment of “Glock switches” or other accessories that could increase the rate of fire.

This bill will now move onto Governor Lamont, send him using the form above to tell him to VETO HB 7042 when it reaches his desk!

Barrett Firearms to Exhibit at GOALS 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 29, 2025 

Washington, D.C. – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce that Barrett Firearms will join the exhibitor floor at the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS), taking place August 9–10 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and iconic contributions to American firearms manufacturing, Barrett remains a symbol of strength and innovation in the Second Amendment community. 

GOALS 2025 will feature over 120,000 square feet of exhibitor space filled with top-tier manufacturers, legal experts, content creators, and pro-2A activists. Barrett’s presence reinforces the company’s longstanding commitment to preserving and defending the right to keep and bear arms through excellence in design and dedication to American liberty. 

Gun Owners of America (GOA) is honored to welcome Barrett to this year’s summit as part of a growing coalition of industry leaders who are standing shoulder to shoulder with the grassroots to protect constitutional rights. 

Nathan Lux, Director of Marketing for Barrett Firearms, issued the following statement: 

“Barrett is proud to participate in the 2025 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit. It’s a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded advocates who are passionate about defending Second Amendment rights.” 

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

“Barrett is an American institution. Their commitment to craftsmanship and constitutional values makes them an ideal partner for GOALS 2025. We’re proud to stand with them in this fight for freedom.” 

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

“Barrett represents the very best of the firearms industry—reliable, principled, and unapologetically pro-Second Amendment. Their participation in GOALS 2025 sends a strong message: the firearms community is united, energized, and ready to stand firm.” 

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 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- 

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).