ATF is proposing to replace indefinite retention of FFL records with specific retention periods. Key changes include:
•20 or 30 years for ATF Forms 4473 and Acquisition & Disposition (A&D) records (public comment requested)
•Same 20/30-year period for Out-of-Business records at the National Tracing Center
•90 days for private-party transfers and voluntary checks
•5 years for multiple sales reports, theft/loss reports, and incomplete Form 4473s
This update follows standard federal records management practices and brings clarity for licensees. Read the proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT ATF proposes specific retention periods for federal firearm records, considering 20 or 30 years.
ATF is proposing to define “willfully” in DOJ regulations that implement the Gun Control Act. The definition follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s standard in Bryan v. United States: a person acts willfully when they know their conduct is unlawful, even if they are not aware of the specific statute or rule being violated. This provides clearer guidance for license suspension, revocation, and civil penalty actions. Read the proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT ATF proposes defining 'willfully' in firearms violations under the Gun Control Act.
ATF proudly stands with Americans across the nation to honor and celebrate the patriots and heroes who have made this great American experiment a reality for 250 years. #ProudToBeAnAmerican#America250#WeAreATF
ATF is proposing to simplify the process for transporting lawfully registered NFA firearms. This update includes:
•Short-term transport (365 days or fewer): No advance notice or ATF approval required.
•Long-term or permanent relocation: Submit notice on Form 5320.20, but no need to wait for approval.
This change removes unnecessary burdens on law-abiding NFA owners while preserving all other federal, state, and local requirements. Read the proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT ATF announces proposed rule changes for interstate transport and temporary export of NFA firearms.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: There's a new sheriff in town - ATF Director Rob Cekada.
And he's the best thing to ever happen to the agency. He's a constitutional conservative who we've known for DECADES.
And he's made it VERY clear since law before he took office - the new mission of ATF is to PROTECT the rights of law-abiding citizens, expand 2A rights, and target violent criminals.
Democrats are terrified of him. Criminals hate him. But Americans should rest easy knowing a patriot is running the show over there.
Make him FAMOUS.
#lawenforcement@ATFHQ@TheJusticeDept@RapidResponse47
The public comment period for the ATF proposed rule changes is quickly approaching. The landmark package of 34 rules and proposals were announced April 29 and many of the comment periods will be closing between Aug. 4-6, 2026. Our focus is on transparency, accountability, and partnership by balancing robust public safety efforts with the protection of lawful commerce and strict adherence to the 2nd Amendment. Read the proposals and comment at federalregister.gov/agencies…. #NewEra#WeAreATF
ALT Our hearts are heavy at the ATF Denver Field Division as we extend our sincerest condolences to the families, crewmates, friends, and communities grieving the loss of three heroic fallen U.S. Wildland Firefighters. Their selfless courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. Our thoughts also rest with those who were injured; we are sending them strength for a complete and speedy recovery.
ATF remains actively engaged with our public safety partners on wildland fires across Colorado and Utah. We continue to stand ready to provide all support required during this incredibly challenging time.
Snyder Fire #SnyderFire
Kyle Andrew Bailey, 43, Helena, pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
See full news release at justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/helen…
ATF’s firearms tracing and international coordination efforts with @INTERPOL_HQ led to the identification, seizure, and recovery on June 17 of 44 U.S.-sourced firearms trafficked to Africa. The firearms were originally seized by local authorities after being flagged by INTERPOL as trafficked or smuggled. ATF then traced the firearms and worked with the @FBI to return them to the United States. The return of these firearms will assist ATF in eight different ongoing trafficking investigations. Read more at atf.gov/news/press-releases/…. #WeAreATF@USMarshalsHQ@CBP
ALT Firearms are laid out on a wooden table, each sealed in clear plastic bags with documents placed behind them.
ALT Quote from Justin Hoecker on international firearm recoveries disrupting criminal networks and preventing violence globally.
Patrick Hunter Shaver, 34, Billings, who is prohibited from possessing a firearm following a felony strangulation conviction, was sentenced to federal prison after a tip to law enforcement.
See full news release at justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/billi…
Rafael Gonzales Montanez, 61, and Aaron Wade Montoya, 60, Billings, have pleaded guilty to drug and firearm related crimes.
See full news release at justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/2-bil…
#ICYMI: 65-70% of the violent crime cases the federal government prosecutes come from ATF investigations.
ATF, an agency with less than 2,500 agents, partnering with state and local law enforcement, is making a major impact on reducing violent crime across the country.
Watch ATF Director Robert Cekada’s full interview with Colion Noir at piped.video/watch?v=wEQTop6C…. #WeAreATF
ATF is proposing to amend the definition of “importation” under GCA and NFA regulations. The changes would:
•Create a parallel exclusion from import requirements for items placed in Customs Bonded Warehouses, matching the existing exclusion for Foreign Trade Zones.
•Remove the current restriction that limits FFL activities in FTZs and CBWs to storage only, allowing a broader range of lawful activities.
These updates reduce regulatory ambiguity for importers and licensees operating in international trade zones. Read this proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT ATF proposes amending firearm import rules for customs-bonded warehouses and foreign trade zones under RIN 1140-AA93.
David Leroy Young, 67, Casper, was sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In a December 2025 traffic stop, it was discovered he had an outstanding warrant. During a search money, meth, ammunition and a firearm was found.
See full news release at justice.gov/usao-wy/pr/activ…
ATF is proposing to simplify machine gun transfers between licensed manufacturers, importers, and dealers in two limited situations:
•Demonstrating firearms to government entities
•When a licensee is discontinuing business
The changes reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, better align with the Gun Control Act, and prevent misuse of the dealer sample exception while preserving all NFA and licensing requirements. Read the proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives proposes updated rules for transferring machine guns between qualified licensees under new reform.
ATF has issued a final rule to make technical and administrative clarifying amendments to its regulations in 27 CFR parts 447 and 479 to align with recent Departments of Commerce and State regulatory changes. It clarifies which firearm‑related imports and exports now fall under Commerce’s jurisdiction and makes a few minor technical cleanups. No substantive policy changes are being made. Read the final rule and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announces export control reform aligning Department of Justice rules with Departments of Commerce and State.
Alec Deschryver, 26, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of carjacking involving firearms.
He used social media to carry out violent crimes, and in one instance shot a person he contacted then stole their car.
See full news release at: justice.gov/usao-co/pr/metro…
ATF is proposing to clarify Special Occupational Taxpayer requirements under the National Firearms Act. FFLs will owe one SOT fee per business activity (manufacturing, importing, or dealing) at each location, regardless of the number of Gun Control Act licenses held for that activity at the same premises. This provides licensees with clear, consistent guidance on their NFA tax obligations. Read the proposal and comment at federalregister.gov/document…. #NewEra
ALT Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announces proposed rule clarifying special tax payments per business activity under National Firearms Act.
Don't Lie for the Other Guy! International travelers are advised not to engage in straw purchasing, illegal buying of firearms for prohibited persons. With enhanced penalties, we're committed to preventing gun trafficking risks at FIFA World Cup 2026™. #FIFAWorldCup2026#WeAreATF
ALT Three people watching multiple sports games on TV in a bar, with a message warning that buying a gun for someone who can't legally own one is a crime.
⚾️ From the first pitch to the final out, ATF was on the scene helping keep the 2026 Congressional Charity Baseball Game safe and secure. Our ATF Special Agent Certified Explosives Specialists, Bomb Technicians, and Explosives Detection K-9 teams worked alongside partners to protect players, fans and staff at this annual event. @ATFWashington@ATF_Denver@Nationals
ALT ATF Washington Field Division Special Agents Certified Explosives Specialists and Bomb Technician overlooking a baseball field during a pre-game ceremony at Nationals Park for the Congressional Charity Baseball Game.