Hardline conservative Representatives Lauren Boebert from Colorado and Eric Burlison from Missouri have put forth a proposal aimed at dismantling the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Their one-page bill seeks to eliminate this federal agency, which is responsible for regulating firearms, tackling federal gun crimes, and addressing issues related to explosives, arson, and both alcohol and tobacco offenses.
Boebert and Burlison have stated that the rules imposed by the ATF infringe on the Second Amendment rights of Americans, which guarantee the right to keep and bear arms.
Boebert expressed her skepticism towards the ATF, saying, “I cannot imagine any situation where the ATF could be an ally to law-abiding gun owners.” She believes the agency represents a so-called “deep state” bureaucracy that disregards the rights guaranteed by the Constitution. Burlison echoed her sentiments, asserting, “If this agency cannot fulfill its duty to uphold the Constitution, it should not exist in our government.”
Their proposal has gained support from several other Republican lawmakers, with seven co-sponsoring the bill, including prominent figures like Andy Biggs from Arizona, Mike Collins from Georgia, and Mary Miller from Illinois.
In previous remarks, Burlison suggested that responsibilities currently held by the ATF could be better managed by state governments, criticizing the agency for overstepping its boundaries and interfering with local law enforcement.
While the ATF did not respond immediately for comment on the proposed legislation, an agency spokesperson highlighted the important role the ATF plays in combating violent crime across the nation.
Additionally, Burlison has voiced opinions suggesting that other federal agencies, such as the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency, also merit abolition.
