Beginning in May 2026, the ATF announced a proposed package of 34 new pro-gun rules, many of which will require public comments before they are finalized. Once finalized, these rules will represent some of the biggest changes to the NFA registration process since its inception in 1934. ASA will track the proposed rules here and provide links so individuals can submit public comments.
ATF Rulemaking
Record Retention
ATF 2025R-08P — Records retention for firearms dealer
ATF is proposing changing the records retention period from the current indefinite period to either 20 or 30 years. ATF is also proposing a brief retention period for forms used to facilitate private-party transfers or to conduct voluntary firearm handlers checks.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 8/4/2026
View Rule & Submit CommentsInterstate Transport of NFA Firearms
ATF 2025R-03P — Interstate transport of NFA firearms
ATF proposes to no longer require that persons transporting certain NFA firearms within the US for short-term purposes (365 days or fewer) submit notice to ATF and await approval before transporting; and that persons transporting certain NFA firearms within the United States for long-term purposes (more than 365 days) or for permanent relocation would no longer have to await approval after submitting notice before transporting.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 8/6/2026
View Rule & Submit CommentsNon-Over-the_Counter Transactions
ATF 2025R-26P — Revising Non-Over-the-Counter Firearms Transaction Requirements
ATF proposes changes that would remove the restriction limiting this option to background-check-exempt transfers. The proposed rule would permit FFLs to conduct NOTC transfers while complying with background check requirements and would add remote identity proofing and electronic notices to chief law enforcement officers.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 8/6/2026
View Rule & Submit CommentsNFA Registration
ATF 2025R-22P — NFA Registration Our of Government Contract
ATF is proposing a new provision permitting manufacturers to register such firearms “late”—after the existing regulatory window for registering manufactured firearms—if they fall out of USG contract.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 9/4/2026
View Rule & Submit CommentsFingerprint & Photo Requirements
ATF 2025R-14P — Fingerprint and photo requirements for NFA applications
The ATF is proposing a change to regulatory requirements to submit fingerprints and photographs with certain NFA firearms applications.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 10/5/2026
View Rule & Submit CommentsJoint Spousal Registration of NFA Firearms
ATF 2025R-13P — oint Registration for Spouses Under the NFA
The ATF proposes amendingDOJ regulations to authorize spouses to file a joint application to make, transfer or receive, and register a firearm under the NFA.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 7/7/2026
View Proposed RuleCLEO Notification
ATF 2025R-15P — Removing CLEO Notification Under the NFA
The ATF is proposing a change to remove the requirement that a copy of all applications to make or transfer a firearm subject to the NFA, and the specified form for responsible persons, as applicable, be forwarded to the chief law enforcement officer of the locality in which the applicant/transferee or responsible person is located.
ASA Position: SUPPORT
Current Status: Public comments open through 7/6/2026
View Proposed Rule