US: Tightening regulations to control "ghost guns"

SGGPO 09/08/2023 18:45

According to the Associated Press, with a 5-4 vote, the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the federal government 's regulation on controlling "ghost guns," which are increasingly appearing, particularly at attack sites across the country.

Handguns are displayed at a statewide gun buyback event in Brooklyn, New York, USA. Photo: CFP

"Ghost guns" typically lack serial numbers and, because they are not classified as firearms, do not require licensing or background checks when sold at retail. These guns are also known as "80% guns," meaning they are sold unfinished, and the buyer will perform the final assembly.

"Ghost guns" are widely sold online and have become a sought-after item for those who are prohibited from legally purchasing firearms due to criminal records or being underage.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Justice welcomed the Supreme Court's ruling, saying it took public safety into account, helping law enforcement agencies combat crime and reduce the number of "ghost guns" flooding the community.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, in 2021, local law enforcement agencies seized 19,000 "ghost guns" at crime scenes, a more than tenfold increase in just five years.

Amid a rapid increase in homemade weapons, in 2022, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) of the U.S. Department of Justice issued new regulations and expanded the definition of handguns.

Accordingly, "ghost guns" are "handguns." To make it easier for authorities to regulate them, parts such as the frame of handguns and the receiver of rifles must be licensed and have serial numbers. Manufacturers must also conduct background checks on gun buyers before selling, as they do with other commercial firearms. This requirement applies to all types of firearms, regardless of manufacturing method, including "ghost guns" made from individual parts, gun assemblies, or using 3D printing.

The latest Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that 70% of Americans support the requirement that "ghost guns" must have serial numbers and be manufactured and produced by licensed manufacturers.

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/my-siet-quy-dinh-kiem-soat-sung-ma-post700862.html