Congress Proposes Higher Fees and Stricter Oversight for Gun Dealers to Stop Illegal Sales

Gun store owners would face dramatically higher federal licensing fees — in many cases jumping from $50 to $2,000 — which could be a serious financial burden, especially for smaller shops. On top of that, dealers would need to invest in surveillance cameras, electronic record-keeping systems, and new anti-trafficking procedures. Dealers labeled as "high risk" would face even more requirements and regular government inspections, adding ongoing compliance costs.

The bill creates a new federal trafficking offense with penalties of up to 15 years in prison for anyone who transfers two or more firearms knowing or having reason to believe the recipient is a felon. People with felony convictions would face an even harder time obtaining firearms illegally, as the dealers and supply chains they rely on would be under much tighter scrutiny and harsher penalties.

Law-abiding gun buyers could benefit from reduced illegal trafficking and straw purchases, which fuel gun violence in communities. However, the higher costs imposed on dealers could be passed along to customers in the form of higher prices for firearms and ammunition. Some smaller dealers may close altogether, reducing where people can legally buy guns, particularly in rural areas.