Some state gun permits will now count as federal background checks

The US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives wants to clarify which state gun permits can replace a federal background check. This means some gun buyers will no longer need a separate federal check if their state permit already meets federal standards.

The Brady Act requires a federal background check for most gun sales. But it allows states to issue permits that can substitute for that check. This proposed rule clarifies what makes a state permit good enough. It could streamline gun purchases in states with robust permit systems, making it easier for some people to buy firearms.