Last week, Senate Democrats reintroduced one of the most sweeping federal gun control proposals in years.
U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim brought back the Federal Firearm Licensing Act, a bill that would require Americans to obtain a federal firearm license before purchasing, receiving, or even possessing a firearm.
Supporters are calling it “commonsense.” Gun owners will recognize it for what it is: a national permission slip system enforced by the Department of Justice.
According to the bill text, it would be unlawful for any individual to purchase, receive, or possess a firearm without a valid federal firearm purchasing license issued by the Attorney General.
That license would not be a one-time deal. It would require:
- Mandatory firearms training, including a written test and live-fire testing
- Fingerprints, proof of identity, and a full background investigation
- Disclosure of the specific firearm being purchased, including make, model, and serial number
- Approval or denial within 30 days
- License expiration after five years
- A license valid for one firearm only
By Larry Z

