Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., has proposed a measure to abolish the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), citing his belief that the agency has been a 'disaster' for decades and has infringed upon Second Amendment rights. Burlison, a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, expressed his intention to allow states to handle such matters independently, without federal intervention.
Accusing the ATF of co-opting local law enforcement to enforce laws not passed by state lawmakers, Burlison plans to reintroduce a proposal initially presented in 2023 by former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla. Several GOP representatives, including Lauren Boebert, Paul Gosar, Mary Miller, Andy Biggs, Cory Mills, Mike Collins, Barry Moore, Thomas Massie, and Bob Good, have joined Burlison as cosponsors of the measure.
In response to Burlison's proposal, ATF spokesperson Kristina Mastropasqua emphasized the agency's contributions to public safety by combating violent crime on a daily basis. However, Burlison remains firm in his stance that the ATF, along with the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), should be abolished.
Burlison criticized the EPA for imposing nationwide regulations that he believes are more harmful than beneficial. He advocates for a decentralized approach, allowing states to address their unique needs without overarching federal mandates.
