The deadline redefining machineguns to include bump-stock style devices has arrived, and federal courts have not intervened.
On March 25, 2019, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit denied a request that would have prevented the new ATF Final Rule, also known as the “bump stock ban,” from going into effect.
The Court noted in its order denying relief that “[t]he government concedes that the plaintiffs will suffer irreparable harm if the implementation of the Final Rule is not enjoined. However, the public interest in safety supports the denial of a stay pending appeal.” An emergency request to stop the ban from going into effect was sent to the Supreme Court of the United States, but the Court declined to intervene.
The Final Rule amends the ATF’s definition of machinegun to include bump-stock style devices. This new and amended definition directly contradicts the definition of machinegun as written by Congress, and the interpretation of the law by the ATF under the Obama administration.
As of March 26, 2019, it is a federal felony offense to possess a bump stock. The Final Rule has no provision to grandfather or register devices already owned. Additionally, the grace period to surrender a bump stock to the ATF has passed, meaning your only option at this point would be to destroy all devices in your possession. Further, there is no provision for any compensation for the economic loss of a destroyed or surrendered bump stock.
The ATF has provided bump stock destruction instructions that will render the device incapable of being readily restored to its intended function. Failure to comply with this new rule is a federal felony, punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine for each bump stock in your possession.
If you have any questions about complying with this new regulation, or the regulatory process, call U.S. LawShield and ask to speak to your Independent Program Attorney today.
Simply put… the Law is now selective in regards to enforcement and application.
A cynical mind could assume that everything is now politically driven.
I would have a difficult time destroying something I legally purchased for approximately 350$…that being said, I am so glad I never purchased one .. I thought they were ugly and couldn’t afford to just randomly burn up ammo… for once in my life I let my common sense take charge.. I’m so happy that I didn’t make that stupid decision to purchase that ugly pos with no practical use…
I too, do not own or had the desire to own a “bump stock” mechanism. I am convinced, that allowing any government agency to create or alter any constitutional laws is illegal. For any citizen, that paid their hard earned wages, for legal property and then have it taken away by any government without fair compensation is plain stealing! Our Supreme court decides to look the other way on any law they feel fit based on the “Cheveron Deference” precedent. How fast we forget Pontious Pilate!