Rep. Robin Kelly Applauds Major Gun Background Check Reform

Washington, D.C. –Today, U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL) applauded the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ final rule expanding required background checks before firearm sales.

Therule expands the definition of "engaged in the business" of dealing firearms to anyone who sells firearms to earn a profit, requiring them to register as an FFL and perform background checks. By doing so, this rule will close loopholes that allow individuals to avoid background checks.

The initiative was made possible by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Rep. Robin Kelly proudly helped pass.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly led multiple efforts to ensure the swift implementation of the rule. In December 2023, Congresswoman Robin Kelly and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) led 160 Members of Congress in support of the rule. Rep. Kelly also led nearly 100 House colleagues in an earlier letter urging Attorney General Merrick Garland and ATF Director Steven Dettelbach to implement stronger background checks.

“I came to Congress to end gun violence, and I'm proud that this action brings us one step closer to a safer future for every American," said Rep. Robin Kelly. "I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for their steadfast commitment to gun violence prevention. By keeping guns out of dangerous hands, we are one step closer to ending the public health crisis of gun violence."

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