Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On April 26, 2023, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05) and Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) introduced H.R. 2620, the Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation will enhance penalties for individuals stealing firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) dealer, a firearms and ammunition seller. Penalties would include minimum sentences of three years in prison for burglary and five years in prison for robbery.

According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), between 2017 and 2021, there were over 2,254 burglaries and robberies of FFL dealers. During this period, over 28,000 firearms were stolen, many showing up at crime scenes.

"As crime rises across the nation, additional steps must be taken to prevent criminals from stealing and trafficking firearms for violent crimes," said Congressman Rutherford. "During my career in law enforcement, I saw firsthand how FFL dealers were targeted by criminals. This legislation will ensure that those who rob and burglarize federally licensed gun dealers receive adequate punishment for their crimes."

"The United States has witnessed an uptick in violent crime, often with stolen firearms. It is time for change to stem this disturbing trend," said Congressman Cuellar. "The bipartisan Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act cracks down on criminals who attempt to steal or burglarize federal firearms licensees. I commend my colleague, Congressman Rutherford, for working with me across the aisle to crack down on criminals and curb gun violence across the country."

The Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act has received support from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) - The Firearm Industry Trade Association.

"This bipartisan legislation is what true gun safety looks like. Congress is sending a clear message that the safety of our communities is nonnegotiable and targeting firearm retailers to steal guns in order to commit further crimes is intolerable," said Lawrence G. Keane, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for NSSF. "The firearm industry is grateful to Congressman Rutherford and Cuellar for reaching across the aisle to provide those firearm retailers who follow the law the protection they deserve. This legislation assigns the responsibility for crime where it belongs - with the criminal. These are real solutions that make our communities safer."

A previous version of the Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act was introduced last Congress by Representative Conor Lamb (PA-17).

Original source can be found here.