Wyoming joins other states in opposing ATF rule on firearms
CHEYENNE (WNE) — The state of Wyoming has joined 20 other states in a lawsuit arguing that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is overstepping its authority and infringing on Americans’ Second Amendment right to privately buy and sell firearms.
In the lawsuit, the coalition of states argue that the ATF’s regulatory restrictions exceed the authority granted to the agency by Congress and are a violation of the Second Amendment.
“Yet again, this administration has demonstrated its contempt for the Constitution and the separation of powers,” Gov. Mark Gordon said in a news release.
According to the complaint, “The right to keep and bear arms is central to our country’s history and traditions, so Congress must be careful when addressing that right through federal legislation.”
Under a final ATF rule, Definition of “Engaged in the Business” as a Dealer in Firearms, the agency “would put innocent firearms sales between law-abiding friends and family members within the reach of federal regulation,” the complaint continues.
“The Biden administration is attempting to treat every legal gun owner as a commercial gun dealer, and every gun sale or trade as a commercial transaction,” Gordon noted. “The Biden administration is exceeding its authority and targeting our Second Amendment rights without going through Congress.”
In December, Wyoming joined 25 other states in signing a comment letter opposing the new rule. The states have asked the court to vacate the rule as contrary to law.
This story was published on May 8, 2024.