WASHINGTON, D.C. — On February 7, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at strengthening Second Amendment protections by directing a broad review of federal regulations and policies implemented from 2021 to 2025. The order tasks the Attorney General with identifying any federal actions that may have infringed on Americans’ right to keep and bear arms and presenting a plan of action to address such concerns.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order
The executive order, titled “Protecting Second Amendment Rights,” outlines the following directives:
- Review of Federal Actions (2021-2025): Within 30 days, the Attorney General must assess all executive orders, regulations, guidance, and policies enacted by federal agencies from January 2021 through January 2025 that may have imposed undue restrictions on lawful gun ownership.
- Focus on ATF Regulations: The order specifically mentions rules issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) during this period, including firearm classifications and licensing requirements for gun dealers.
- Examination of Litigation and Gun Control Policies: The Attorney General must evaluate ongoing or potential legal challenges related to firearm regulations, as well as reports issued by the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
- Reassessment of Firearm Manufacturing and Transfers: The review will also examine federal processing of applications for the making, manufacturing, transfer, or export of firearms.
Following this review, the Attorney General is required to work with the Domestic Policy Advisor to finalize and implement a corrective action plan.
Implications for Gun Owners
This executive order signals a major policy shift aimed at rolling back firearm regulations implemented under the Biden administration. It suggests that the Trump administration may seek to reverse certain ATF rules, including those affecting pistol braces, background check expansions, and restrictions on Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs).
While the exact policy changes remain to be seen, this move underscores President Trump’s commitment to reinforcing Second Amendment rights and reducing regulatory barriers for law-abiding gun owners. Gun rights advocates are likely to support the order, while gun control groups may challenge its implementation.
As the review progresses, more details will emerge regarding specific policies that may be revised or repealed in the coming months.
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