Press Releases

Maine First District Congresswoman Chellie Pingree is applauding efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration to combat gun violence by announcing a new rule that will save lives by reducing the number of firearms sold without background checks. 

“More Americans die from misused firearms than car crashes every year, and yet America’s gun ownership laws are far more lax and allow weapons to get into the wrong hands. I have supported expanding background checks since coming to Congress, but only the Biden Administration has succeeded in closing dangerous loopholes that have enabled the illegal acquisition of firearms,” said Pingree. “Now, Congress must build on this effort and pass long-overdue universal background check legislation to protect our communities—from Lewiston to Uvalde.”

Previously, only sellers “engaged in the business” of firearm dealing were required to register as a Federal firearm licensee (FFL) and therefore conduct background checks for firearm sales. Today’s rule expands the definition of "engaged in the business" of dealing firearms to anyone who sells firearms to earn a profit, greatly expanding the number of firearms dealers legally required to register as FFLs. Firearms sellers, including those operating through online advertisements, gun shows, and other means, who previously did not conduct background checks will now be obligated to perform them before selling a firearm to a buyer.

This rule was made possible by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the most consequential gun violence prevention legislation signed into law in decades which Pingree was proud to help pass. Click here to learn more about how Pingree is working in Congress to combat gun violence.

###