September 17, 2007

ATF REVISES FEDERAL FIREARMS TRANSACTION RECORD FORM

WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reminds federal firearms licensees that effective Sept. 1 they must use the revised Firearms Transaction Record Part I – Over-the-Counter [ATF Form 4473 (5300.9) Revised May 2007].

“In the immediate aftermath of the tragic events at Virginia Tech in April, many questions arose about whether the person responsible was prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm and how the shooter passed the background check required before purchasing the two firearms used,” said ATF Acting Director Michael J. Sullivan. “ATF is clarifying this form in an effort to make it clear that any person who has been found by a court board or other lawful authority to be a danger to self or others is prohibited from purchasing a firearm or ammunition.”

The form clarifies the question regarding “mental defectives” and incorporates the definitions of this term set forth in the regulations, 27 CFR 478.11. The revision also incorporates certain provisions of the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-162) by adding “tribal offense” and “Tribal Law” to the definition of Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence.

ATF is a principal law enforcement agency within the U.S. Department of Justice dedicated to preventing terrorism, reducing violent crime and protecting our nation. The men and women of ATF perform the dual responsibilities of enforcing federal criminal laws and regulating the firearms and explosives industries. More information on ATF and its programs and resources is at www.atf.gov.