Interstate Sales Reform Introduced

On March 25, Representative Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.) introduced H.R. 4048—the "Firearms Commerce Modernization Act." This legislation would update current law to allow a federally licensed dealer to sell and/or transfer any handgun over the counter to an out-of-state dealer, so long as the sale complies with the laws of both states. Current laws only apply to long guns, such as shotguns and rifles. The legislation would also allow licensed dealers to sell firearms at gun shows in other states in the same manner as their place of business. These provisions would greatly reduce the risk of lost or stolen firearms, and would minimize out-of-state transfer fees and time consuming paper work.

Interstate sales were banned in 1968 in a supposed attempt to allow states to better enforce their own licensing or waiting period requirements. Those outdated systems have largely been superseded by modern technology now that all gun sales are subject to National Instant Check System (NICS) checks. As Representative Gingrey notes, "Technological progress allows us to make firearm sales easier and safer than in the past. This legislation lowers regulatory burdens without undercutting safeguards that keep guns out of the hands of criminals."

Please be sure to contact your U.S. Representative and urge him to cosponsor and support H.R. 4048—the "Firearms Commerce Modernization Act." You can find contact information for your elected officials by using the "Write Your Representatives" tool at www.NRAILA.org.