Minnesota AG joins 22 states to combat illegal gun trafficking
- The ATF rule requires private gun sellers to obtain licenses and perform background checks.
- A coalition of 22 U.S. attorneys general, including Ellison, argues the rule is vital for public safety.
- The coalition is seeking to reverse a Texas federal judge's injunction against the rule.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has joined a coalition of 22 U.S. attorneys general in support of a federal rule aimed at curbing illegal gun trafficking. This rule, established by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), mandates that private gun sellers obtain licenses and conduct background checks on potential buyers. The coalition filed a legal brief arguing that the rule is essential for public safety, particularly in preventing dangerous individuals, such as domestic abusers, from acquiring firearms. Despite this support, a federal judge in Texas has issued a preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the rule, prompting the coalition to seek a reversal of this court order. The ATF National Tracing Center, which plays a crucial role in solving gun crimes, received a significant number of requests last year, highlighting the ongoing issues related to gun violence and trafficking in the U.S.