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HR 5874

Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act

119th Congress Introduced by Sheri Biggs and 39 co-sponsors

The Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act ensures essential firearm operations, like background checks and export licenses, continue during government shutdowns.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 5874

Summary of HR 5874 - Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 5874
  • Title: Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act
  • Status: Introduced in House
  • Introduced On: October 31, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act aims to ensure the continuity of certain federal operations related to firearms laws and firearm export licensing during government shutdowns. The bill seeks to classify these operations as essential, thereby allowing them to continue even when other government functions are suspended due to a lapse in appropriations.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

  1. Emergency Classification:

    • The operations related to firearms enforcement and export licensing are deemed to involve emergencies concerning human safety and property protection. This classification allows these functions to continue during shutdowns.

  2. Designated Operations and Services:

    • The following operations will be exempt from shutdowns:
      • National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS): This includes the processing of background checks necessary for firearm purchases.
      • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): Specifically, the Directorate of Enforcement Programs and Services will continue its functions.
      • Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS): This pertains to the processing of applications for export licenses related to firearms and firearm-related products.
      • Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC): This includes activities related to the processing of export licenses for firearms and related products.

  3. Employee Status:

    • Employees involved in these operations will be classified as "excepted employees," meaning they are required to continue working during a government shutdown.

Impact

The Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act would primarily affect:
- Federal Employees: Those working in the NICS, ATF, BIS, and DDTC who would be required to continue their duties during a shutdown.
- Firearm Purchasers and Exporters: Individuals and businesses seeking to purchase firearms or export firearm-related products would benefit from the continued processing of background checks and export licenses.

Legislative Process

  • Introduced: October 31, 2025
  • Referred to Committees: The bill has been referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Foreign Affairs for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • S 3085: This bill has a companion in the Senate, which may indicate parallel legislative efforts to address the same issues.

This summary provides an overview of HR 5874, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on federal operations and firearm-related activities during government shutdowns.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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