A group of Republicans on Capitol Hill is calling foul on the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to drown millions of gun owners and the firearms industry in red tape concerning pistol stabilizing braces. 

A letter on the subject, penned by U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, NC-R, and signed by 140 other members of the House, was fired off this week to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Acting Director Marvin Richardson. 

The lawmakers outline that ATF has repeatedly stated, “the brace concept was inspired by the needs of disabled combat veterans who still enjoy recreational shooting but could not reliably control heavy pistols without assistance," and points out the agency acknowledges there are legitimate uses for certain stabilizing braces. Further, it says the $200 tax in its rule won't affect gun crime but instead put a direct tax on many, including disabled combat veterans.

"This proposed guidance is alarming and jeopardizes the rights of law-abiding gun owners and disabled combat veterans across the country," the members write. "Should this guidance go into effect, a disabled combat veteran who has chosen the best stabilizing brace for their disability is now a felon unless they turn in or destroy the firearm, destroy the brace, or pay a $200 tax. Furthermore, it could make millions of law-abiding citizens felons overnight."

The public comment period for the proposed ATF rule change is open until Sept. 8, 2021.

Banner image: Maxim PDX (Photo via Maxim Defense)

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