# What the NICS Data Integrity Act Does

When someone tries to buy a gun, federal law requires a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This bill makes changes to how that system works and what information it searches. Specifically, it requires the NICS system to search more databases when checking someone's background—including national crime records, state criminal history databases, and lists of people banned from owning firearms. The goal is to make sure the system catches more disqualifying information that might currently be missed because it's scattered across different databases that aren't always checked together.

The bill also changes how long the system can keep records about background check requests. Currently, records are supposed to be destroyed quickly. Under this new law, if the system hasn't finished determining whether someone should be allowed to buy a gun within 30 days, it can hold onto the records longer—as long as it takes to make that determination. If this happens, the system must notify the person in writing that their records are being retained and give them a chance to submit information to correct or clarify anything in those records.

In practical terms, this means background checks could take longer in some cases, especially if there are questions about someone's eligibility. It also means people who are flagged during a background check will be notified if their information is being held for further investigation. The bill is intended to close gaps where dangerous individuals might slip through because relevant criminal information wasn't being checked, though it could also mean longer wait times for legitimate gun buyers in cases where the background check process needs more time to investigate.

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021 This bill modifies procedures for conducting firearms-related background checks through the national instant criminal background check system (NICS). Specifically, the bill requires the NICS to retain records related to a firearms-related background check for as long as necessary to determine whether an individual is eligible to receive a firearm. Additionally, the bill requires the NICS to query additional databases for relevant information, including the National Data Exchange, the Interstate Identification Index System, and the National Crime Information Center databases.