Protecting American Gun Exporters
A group of Republican lawmakers led by Senator Mike Lee of Utah has introduced a bill in response to the Biden administration’s decision to halt firearm export licenses. The bill, titled the Protect American Gun Exporter Act, aims to safeguard manufacturers from what they deem as arbitrary policy shifts that unfairly target livelihoods based on industry affiliation.
A Bipartisan Effort to Preserve Jobs
The bill, which has garnered support from GOP Senators John Thune, Cynthia Lummis, Steve Daines, Mike Braun, Tom Cotton, and Rick Scott, aims to protect U.S. jobs in the firearms industry and weaken illicit arms dealers. Chairman Mark Green of the House Committee on Homeland Security is leading the companion bill in the House of Representatives.
An Attack on Constitutional Rights
Senator Thune, the Senate GOP whip, highlighted the administration’s attempt to restrict the lawful export of firearms and related components, viewing it as another tactic to undermine the American firearms industry. Senator Lummis expressed her concerns about the erosion of the constitutional rights of Wyoming residents and the targeting of gun manufacturers.
Defending the Second Amendment
The bill aims to protect law-abiding citizens’ right to bear arms and ensure that federal agencies fulfill their obligations. Congressman Green emphasized the need to hold the Department of Commerce accountable and prevent anti-gun power grabs. He commended Senator Lee’s leadership and support for the bill in the Senate.
Barring Arbitrary Actions
The bill introduced by Senator Lee seeks to strip Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo of her authority to carry out the department’s pause on new export licenses. It also prohibits similar actions in the future, safeguarding the export of firearms and related items described in the bill.
Demand for Answers
Prior to introducing the bill, Republican members of the House Small Business Committee raised concerns and demanded answers from the Department of Commerce regarding the halt on firearm export licenses. Chairman Roger Williams expressed his opposition to the decision, stating that it could potentially violate the Second Amendment.
At the time of writing, the Department of Commerce has not provided a comment on the matter.