Attorney General Todd Blanche has introduced a new process allowing individuals barred from owning firearms to apply for the restoration of their federal firearm rights. This initiative requires applicants to explain the circumstances of their prohibition and prove they are not a danger to public safety.
In a statement, Blanche emphasized, “The Second Amendment is not a second-class right, and the federal government should not permanently deprive Americans of a constitutional right without regard to whether they pose a danger to public safety.” Blanche added that this rule provides a balanced approach, protecting the public while offering a legitimate path to restoration for eligible individuals.
The rule, while comprehensive, considers the applicant’s circumstances of prohibition, record, reputation, and conduct post-incident. The Justice Department clarified that violent felons, registered sex offenders, illegal aliens, and other individuals posing ongoing danger typically remain ineligible for relief. The relief focuses on federal firearms restrictions and does not affect state laws.
The National Rifle Association (NRA) expressed support for restoring Second Amendment rights for individuals who have completed their sentences and are not a threat to public safety. Despite some reservations, the NRA acknowledges the rule as a positive move and commits to continued advocacy.
This announcement signifies another victory for gun-rights supporters. Recently, the Trump administration chose not to pause a court ruling permitting the possession of short-barreled rifles, shotguns, and silencers without federal registration. The ruling challenges the National Firearms Act of 1934, which mandated a $200 tax and required additional registration for certain firearms. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), Republicans reduced this tax to zero, deeming the registration requirement unconstitutional.
U.S. Representative Andrew Clyde hailed the court victory as a historic Second Amendment legal achievement.