My reply to Congressman Allen
Thank you for acknowledging my correspondence.
I don’t own a pistol braced firearm. However, I am more concerned that the ATF can write an opinion, the Attorney General sign it and it carries the weight of law with no legislative process.
This is scary to me and in all honesty, the REASON for the 1st and 2nd Amendments.
Scott White
Evans, Georgia
Dear Mr. White,
Thank you for contacting me regarding the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ (ATF) proposed rule entitled, “Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached ‘Stabilizing Braces’”. I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this very important issue.
As a lifelong member of the NRA, I believe the ‘Right to Bear Arms’ is one of the most fundamental and important rights in the Constitution. During my time in Congress, I will always fight to protect and uphold the Second Amendment.
On June 7, 2021, the Attorney General signed the ATF proposed rule, Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached ‘Stabilizing Braces’, which would require those who own or use a stabilizing brace to turn in their firearm, destroy their firearm, or pay a $200 tax.
On January 13, 2023, ATF submitted its final rule regarding Stabilizing Braces to the Federal Register and clarified that any former guidance or rulings on stabilizing braces are now void.
This new rule will make millions of legal gun owners and disabled combat veterans criminals overnight. That is why, in the 117th Congress, I joined 139 of my colleagues in the House of Representatives in sending a letter to the ATF and Department of Justice (DOJ) urging them to withdraw the proposed rule.
The ATF has acknowledged and repeatedly stated, “the brace concept was inspired by the needs of disabled combat veterans who still enjoy recreational shooting but could not reliably control heavy pistols without assistance.” It is unconscionable that our veterans are getting discriminated against due to a disability, as they have served our great nation so selflessly.
I want you to know that I am opposed to this final rule, which is why, my colleague, Congressman Andrew Clyde (R-GA-9), and I are working to introduce legislation that would end the ATF’s new Stabilizing Brace rule. We will be introducing this legislation in the coming weeks.
Please know that I will continue to monitor this situation and keep your thoughts in mind should any relevant legislation reach the House floor regarding this issue. Our Constitution clearly states citizens’ right to bear arms and I will always fight any efforts that would intrude upon Americans’ Second Amendment rights.
Sincerely,
Rick W. Allen
Member of Congress