Most of our clients are likely aware of the ATF’s proposed regulation regarding gun trusts. The proposed regulation will require that an entity seeking to make or receive an NFA firearm do the following:

1. Complete and submit proposed Form 5320.23 for each responsible person;

2. Submit fingerprints, photographs, and CLEO certificate for each responsible person; and

3. Submit a copy of the documentation that establishes the legal existence of the legal entity.

The proposed regulation is currently in what is called the “notice and comment” phase. This is a time when the public is allowed to make comments on the federal government’s website regarding their opinions about the proposed regulations. Here’s what our clients can do to participate in sharing their opinions. First, consider the effects that the law, and the requirements listed above will have on you, your trust, or the trust you are planning on establishing. Think about how it will affect your goals—whether your goals are collecting, self-defense, gun-smithing, hunting, passing on your collection to your children, etc.

Second, visit http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=ATF-2013-0001-0001 and click on the “Comment Now” button on the right side of the page. Follow the prompts and submit your comment. Note that your name (which is required when commenting) will be publicly viewable on the www.regulations.gov website when others view your comment.

Your comments are valuable.