The US is suspending export licenses for many civilian firearms and ammunition for all non-governmental users for three months. This measure also applies to hunting rifles and optical sights.
The Commerce Department said it will urgently investigate the “risk of firearms being diverted to facilities or activities that promote regional instability, violate human rights or fuel criminal activity.”
The freeze affects most guns and ammunition that can be purchased at a U.S. gun store, said Johanna Reeves, an attorney who specializes in export controls and firearms at the Washington law firm Reeves & Dola.
She has never seen the Commerce Department take such a far-reaching measure as this. US companies such as Sturm Ruger & Co., Smith & Wesson Brands and Vista Outdoor could be affected by the ban. The break also includes shotguns and optical sights.
Export licenses for Ukraine and Israel excluded
Export licenses for Ukraine and Israel, as well as some other close allies, will be exempt from the temporary export ban. Foreign customers include dealers and stores that sell firearms. Exporters can continue to submit permit applications during the pause, but these will remain “unprocessed” until the pause is lifted.
Source: Krone
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