Emerald Coast Times

On May 23, 2024, during a House Judiciary Committee hearing, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) questioned the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Director Steven Dettelbach regarding a new rule impacting private firearm sales. The rule aims to restrict Americans from legally transferring firearms.

Rep. Gaetz highlighted concerns about the ambiguity in defining who is considered engaged in the business of firearm dealing. "So how many firearms does someone have to sell to be engaged in the business of firearm dealing?" he asked.

Director Dettelbach responded that the matter is currently being litigated and explained that the rule includes conduct-based factors rather than a specific numerical threshold. He stated, "There are factors that are conduct based, not numerical based but conduct based."

Gaetz expressed frustration over the lack of clarity for regular individuals trying to comply with the law: "What you're saying is there is no bright line there." Dettelbach maintained that there is now more information available than ever before through this rule.

The discussion also touched on ongoing litigation concerning the rule's implementation. Gaetz pointed out that a Texas judge had halted the rule’s enforcement due to its perceived vagueness and overreach beyond congressional intent. "In Texas, a judge has stopped the implementation of this law for three reasons," Gaetz noted.

Dettelbach reiterated that these issues are under litigation and referred to extensive Department of Justice briefings on these matters.

Gaetz concluded by criticizing what he perceives as an attempt by ATF to complicate lawful firearm transfers: "You're trying to criminalize an entire enterprise."

The full video of Rep. Gaetz’s interaction with Director Dettelbach at the House Judiciary Committee hearing can be found online.