According to the Associated Press, on October 9th, local time, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it will no longer enforce federal registration requirements for gun silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and certain other firearms nationwide. This means that American citizens no longer need federal government approval when purchasing such firearms or equipment.
Previously, when purchasing these types of guns and silencers in the United States, buyers had to fill out application forms, submit fingerprints, and wait for federal approval. However, in August this year, Texas District Judge James Hendricks ruled that the registration requirements should be abolished after Congress and President Trump revoked the $200 registration exemption for silencers and such firearms.
The United States Department of Justice did not appeal this ruling and announced that registration requirements would be relaxed starting from October 9. Under the new regulations, except for 15 states that still require compliance with federal licensing procedures under state laws, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will no longer require related buyers to register.
A gun store in Maine, USA – Visual China
According to a statement issued by Robert Sackada, director of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, “The instructions from the president, Congress, and the courts are clear. The Bureau is adjusting our law enforcement approach while ensuring that we continue to focus on where we are most needed: combating violent crime in American communities.”
Sekada said that after the ruling by the Texas court, federal law enforcement agencies received a large number of questions from the American public and congress members. They asked how the federal government would enforce laws across the United States. He stated that the Trump administration believes that "the best and fairest way" is to establish uniform national rules.
However, the U.S. Department of Justice emphasizes that machine guns and “destructive devices” as defined by federal laws still require registration. All gun buyers must fill out the standard gun purchase form and undergo a background check.
The decision of the Trump administration has caused dissatisfaction among American groups that support gun control. They believe that federal registration requirements are essential for public safety, and that the judge's ruling and the Department of Justice's decision are "reckless".
"Everytown for Gun Safety" Chairman John Feinblatt issued a statement on the 9th, accusing Sec of State "attempts to selectively enforce federal gun laws, which effectively caters to Trump administration's wanton and lawless behavior."
For a long time, American society has been troubled by issues related to gun violence. Data released by the 'Gun Violence Archive' website shows that in 2025, more than 14,600 people in the United States died due to gun violence, and approximately 26,100 people were injured as a result.
