# What This Bill Actually Does

Congress is trying to block a new rule from the Department of Justice that changes how the government defines what counts as a "firearm" under federal law. Specifically, the rule redefines what a "frame or receiver" is—these are the core metal parts of a gun that the government considers the actual "firearm" for legal purposes. The Justice Department's new rule would expand what qualifies as a frame or receiver, which would mean more gun parts and partially-assembled guns would be regulated like complete firearms.

The practical effect is about regulating unfinished gun kits and parts. Before this rule, someone could legally buy incomplete gun parts or kits online without going through a licensed dealer or background check, then assemble them at home. Under the Justice Department's new definition, many of these kits and parts would be classified as actual firearms, meaning they'd have to be sold through licensed gun dealers who conduct background checks. This bill would reject that change and keep the old rules in place, allowing the sale of these kits and parts to continue without the same regulations.

This matters to gun enthusiasts and hobbyists who build firearms at home, as well as gun manufacturers and online retailers who sell these kits and parts. If the bill passes, it prevents the government from tightening rules on how these unfinished guns and components can be bought and sold. If it fails, the Justice Department's stricter rules would take effect, making it harder to obtain the materials needed to build guns without background checks. The bill essentially represents a disagreement between Congress and the Justice Department over how strictly the government should regulate partially-assembled firearms and their components.

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of a rule submitted by the Department of Justice relating to "Definition of 'Frame or Receiver' and Identification of Firearms".

McClain, Lisa C.

 <p>This joint resolution nullifies a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives rule published on April 26, 2022, concerning regulatory definitions and identification of firearms.</p>