Gun Owners of America spokesman Stephen Willeford explains why the group’s latest rule may be amongst its most ridiculous yet.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives (ATF) are at it yet again, with a new policy that could severely someone that’s taking part in a private gun sale.
According to the group’s latest gun rule, anyone that sells a firearm for “profit” (based on their determination, mind you) would be subject to up to five years in jail and a $250,000 fine.
The rule notes that “even a single firearm transaction, or offer to engage in a transaction, when combined with other evidence, may be sufficient to require a license.”
But there’s some question that comes into this. First off, what the ATF would consider “evidence” in terms of a private gun sale. Could it be to who’s buying it? Or perhaps circumstances surrounding the situation? And, for that matter, why is the ATF the judge and jury on the matter, instead of someone that has a better understanding of justice?
The rule states that registration with the federal government, with photo, is required. And, from there, the local police chief would get involved to make sure that local zooming restrictions are set (which, to some, may be a large problem). There’s also the matter of getting a license, maintaining regular business hours, and paying licensing fees.
And that’s for a one-time sale. Even if Dad decides to sell his old pistol to his son. All of that must be followed. Ridiculous, to say the least.
What’s more, such a sale would warrant ATF inspections – without the need for paperwork – as often as once a year.
Here to talk about the rule further is Stephen Willeford, the spokesman for the Gun Owners of America. You may recall his being a “hero with a gun” in the 2017 Sutherland Springs incident, which he’s since written a book about. His expertise in all things firearms should be useful in this discussion.
Q&A:
- Why would the ATF put such a ridiculous rule in place for private gun sellers? Are they truly that concerned about national security?
- Doesn’t this seem a bit overelaborate when it comes to the sale of a handgun? Especially if it’s a friend selling to another friend or family member?
- What do you think about the restrictions and possibly jail time and fine that the ATF have put in place with the rule? Could this potentially result in lawsuits?
- Do you believe the ATF could make similar restrictions like this if this is seen as a “success” by them and the Biden administration?
- Where can people go to voice their opposition to this rule?
- You recently wrote a book called A Town Called Sutherland Springs: Faith and Heroism Through Tragedy, revolving around your 2017 “hero with a gun” situation. Tell us more about how this came together, and why it’s such an important read right now.
- Where can people find your book?
- Where can we learn more about you, as well as the Gun Owners of America?
- You can learn more at http://www.thebarefootdefender.com. You can also read more about the Gun Owners of America at https://www.gunowners.org/.
About Stephen Willeford…
Stephen represents the Gun Owners of America and is known around the country as the “good guy with the gun” for helping stop the largest Texas mass shooting in the history of the state in 2017. He is available to speak about all gun rights issues, as well as the importance of Gun Owners of America. You can read more about him at http://www.thebarefootdefender.com.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: geraldmcg@outlook.com or 919-437-0001.
