“The National Rifle Association (NRA) has taken a stand against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) over a controversial rule on stabilizing braces for pistols. This rule has caused significant concern among law-abiding gun owners, as it imposes penalties and fines for the use of a perfectly legal accessory.
The NRA is committed to exposing the flaws in this arbitrary and unconstitutional rule, which infringes on the rights of gun owners. NRA Executive Vice President & CEO Wayne LaPierre expressed confidence in the NRA’s ability to confront the ATF and protect the freedoms of its members.
This legal action by the NRA is part of its ongoing efforts to challenge the rule. The organization has previously submitted comments in opposition, intervened in other legal cases, and supported lawsuits by state attorneys general. The NRA’s determination to safeguard the rights of law-abiding citizens remains unwavering.
Pistol braces are accessories that provide stability to firearms, particularly benefiting disabled veterans and individuals who require one-handed operation. However, the ATF has classified pistols with braces as short-barreled rifles, necessitating a federal license for ownership.
The NRA’s lawsuit argues that the rule is not only unconstitutional but also contradicts the ATF’s own previous position on pistol braces. By reversing its stance, the ATF is subjecting law-abiding citizens to unnecessary registration and taxation under the National Firearms Act.
The NRA seeks relief from the enforcement of this rule, ensuring that its members are protected from its unjust consequences. The lawsuit names ATF Director Steven Dettelbach and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland as defendants.
This legal action comes at a crucial time, as the rule was scheduled to take effect on June 1, 2023. However, gun rights groups and the state of Texas have already obtained preliminary injunctive relief against it. The NRA is determined to protect its members from the harm caused by this rule.
Many NRA members face significant challenges due to this rule, being forced to modify, destroy, register, or surrender their firearms under threat of criminal prosecution. This is a direct assault on their constitutional rights, which cannot be tolerated.
The NRA is committed to defending the rights of its law-abiding members through all available means. With the support of other gun rights groups, we are confident that justice will prevail, and the rights of law-abiding gun owners will be upheld.
We applaud House Republicans for passing a resolution to nullify the ATF’s final rule. Now, we call on the Senate to do the same. It is crucial that we stand united against this unconstitutional overreach.
While the fight is far from over, the NRA remains steadfast in its mission to protect the Second Amendment and the rights of its members. Together, we can ensure that freedom triumphs over oppressive government regulations. Stay tuned for updates on this important battle.”
Source Fox News