California Gun Rights Foundation Applauds ATF’s Updated Policy on FFL Inspections
San Diego, CA, May 30, 2025 –, Today, the California Gun Rights Foundation (CGF) responded to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) newly announced policy update concerning inspections of Federal Firearm Licensees (FFLs). The updated policy replaces the widely criticized 2021 “zero-tolerance” enforcement standard, and is intended to reintroduce fairness, discretion, and proportionality into the compliance process.
According to ATF, the revised policy eliminates automatic license revocations for minor or clerical errors and restores discretion to field investigators to distinguish between honest mistakes and willful violations that pose real public safety threats.
Michael Schwartz, Executive Director of the California Gun Rights Foundation, issued the following statement:
“While this policy shift does not erase the harm done under the Biden administration’s previous crackdown on lawful gun dealers, it is a step in the right direction. For years, we’ve seen hardworking, law-abiding FFLs treated like criminals over paperwork issues, simply because of a political agenda. Rolling back the so-called 'zero-tolerance' policy is long overdue.”
The updated guidance directs investigators to consider mitigating factors, such as a dealer’s willingness to self-report, implement corrective actions, or their overall compliance history. ATF’s announcement emphasizes that the goal is to target true threats to public safety, not punish dealers over non-material infractions.
Schwartz added:
“The firearms industry isn’t the enemy. FFLs are often the first to detect and report suspicious activity. They deserve respect, not harassment. This new guidance must be more than a press release. It has to result in real, measurable change on the ground.”
CGF will continue monitoring how the updated policy is implemented in California and nationwide, and remains committed to protecting the rights of FFLs and gun owners alike.
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