Trump Administration Moves to Roll Back ATF Regulations, Raising Alarms on Gun Safety

The Trump administration is aggressively dismantling regulatory safeguards that have long governed firearm purchases in the United States. As part of a broader effort to cut government spending, President Trump's administration proposes slashing the budget of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) by 25% and eliminating approximately two-thirds of its inspectors—around 540 personnel. These cost-cutting moves come alongside plans to overhaul nearly 50 ATF regulations. Among the most concerning proposals is reducing mandatory record retention for firearm owners from permanent storage to just 20 years, directly threatening traceability in criminal investigations. Furthermore, the administration seeks to extend...