WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg, today announced that legislation he introduced, the Veterans’ Firearms Heritage Act, has gained the support and co-sponsorship of 219 members of the House – from both parties.  A majority vote in the House requires 218 votes.  Rehberg’s legislation corrects a law that currently treats World War II and Korean War-era veterans like criminals for not registering war relic firearms with the federal government.

“This common sense bill has more than enough bipartisan support in the House to move it forward today,” said Rehberg, a member of the Second Amendment Task Force.  “It’s time for the House to act quickly and decisively.  These American heroes have been forced into the shadow of a poorly executed law for long enough.  In this case, justice delayed is truly justice denied.”

During WWII and the Korean War, many veterans acquired war relic firearms, which was a lawful practice at the time.  Under current law, if the firearms were not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record during a single 30-day registration period in the 1970s, the veteran or their heir may be convicted of illegally possessing the firearm.

The Veterans’ Heritage Firearms Act will provide a limited amnesty for veterans who served overseas between 1934 and 1968.  During the amnesty period, veterans will be able to register war relic firearms without fear of prosecution. This amnesty also extends to the veteran’s lawful heirs who inherited these weapons.  If the veteran or heir chooses not to keep the weapon, the law would allow them to transfer the relic to a museum or collection without penalty in an effort to preserve these valuable pieces of America’s military history.

"Veterans have risked life and limb for our country and our freedom and they have earned the right to keep these trophies from their service.  It is only proper that these veterans and their families be given the opportunity to register these historic firearms without penalty,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director of NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action.  “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of Congressman Rehberg in securing a bi-partisan majority of 219 co-sponsors for H.R. 420 to date.”