#United States #Washington #Safety Standards #NSSF #Firearm Handler Check

NSSF's Successful Push for Firearm Handler Checks

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has achieved a significant milestone in the firearm industry with the announcement of the forthcoming publication of the Firearm Handler Check (FHC) Final Rule. Set to be published in the Federal Register tomorrow, this rule represents a culminative effort to enhance safety protocols within the firearm sector, particularly focusing on the integrity of personnel employed in this sensitive field.

A Historic Achievement for Firearm Safety

The FHC Final Rule allows federal firearms licensees (FFLs) to conduct background check verifications on both current and potential employees utilizing the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Historically, the NICS system was solely implemented for background checks on individuals seeking to purchase firearms. NSSF has championed the necessity for FFLs to screen their employees and job applicants to prevent prohibited individuals from gaining access to firearm inventory within licensed premises.

NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane remarked on the law's importance, asserting that this achievement dramatically advances the capacities of firearm industry members to safeguard their businesses and communities. He stated, "We all want to keep firearms out of the hands of those who should not possess them. This includes current or prospective employees who might be engaged at a licensed firearm business but are legally barred from firearm ownership."

The Road to Implementation

This milestone stems from NSSF's persistent efforts, including advocacy work following the enactment of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) in 2022, which NSSF actively pushed to include provisions enabling these critical background checks. The newly affirmed rule, which will officially take effect 30 days post-publication, also fulfills another significant goal within the BSCA—empowering licensed firearm businesses to verify firearm serial numbers against databases of stolen firearms.

Such background checks are expected to not only enhance workplace safety but also bolster the overall safety of the communities these businesses serve. Lawrence G. Keane expressed gratitude to the U.S. Department of Justice for recognizing this initiative's importance, stating: "We thank the DOJ for agreeing with us that this is an essential priority for our industry."

Enhancing Trust within the Firearm Community

The implementation of the FHC Final Rule is a pivotal moment, not only for the NSSF but also for all stakeholders in the firearm industry, from manufacturers to retailers. It creates an added layer of assurance for consumers and the general public, reflecting a commitment to safety and responsible firearm handling.

With this rule, FFLs can now ensure that employees entrusted with handling firearms are legally compliant and do not pose a risk of firearm access to unauthorized or prohibited individuals. This critical advancement is expected to foster trust and accountability, reinforcing the integrity of the firearm industry as a whole.

Looking Ahead

As the NSSF prepares for the publication of the FHC Final Rule, it promises a renewed focus on safety measures and industry standards across the firearm sector. An integral part of this will be monitoring the implementation and effectiveness of these new procedures to ensure ongoing improvement in safety practices. As more information becomes available, NSSF is determined to keep its members informed and engaged.

As we move forward, the implementation of the FHC Final Rule signals a significant shift in how the firearm industry is regulated concerning employee hirings, emphasizing the importance of safety not just internally but also as a standard within local communities. Enhancements in safety regulations ensure a higher level of scrutiny and responsibility that maintain both the integrity of the firearm industry and the security of the communities it serves.