Pasco Reporter

Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and his Congressional colleagues have expressed their concerns regarding the Biden Administration's recent restrictions on civilian firearm exports. In a letter sent on November 7, 2023, the lawmakers emphasized their commitment to protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.

According to Congressman Bilirakis, President Biden has consistently worked towards eroding the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens. He cited previous instances where the administration restricted hunting and archery programs in schools. Now, with the prohibition on law-abiding businesses selling firearms overseas, Bilirakis believes that it is essential to push back against these attempts at government overreach.

The lawmakers argue that the need for the Second Amendment extends beyond historical contexts. They state that every person has a right to self-defense, and the pause on firearms export licenses by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) leaves people more vulnerable. Additionally, they suggest that this restriction may lead potential buyers to seek firearms elsewhere, potentially undermining national security.

The lawmakers highlight the increasing aggressiveness and emboldenment of belligerent actors such as Iran and China. They argue that recent surprise attacks against Israel demonstrate the importance of assessing the genuine need for firearms for defense purposes. They question the ability of BIS to accurately determine who needs firearms for self-defense and who does not.

In conclusion, the lawmakers demand that the Department end the pause on export licenses for firearms, related components, and ammunition. They believe that continuing this restriction will weaken law-abiding civilians while giving criminal actors a monopoly of force. They also urge BIS to consider the impact on innocent people who rely on firearms for self-defense.

The full letter has been endorsed by various organizations, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Gun Owners of America (GOA), National Rifle Association (NRA), American Suppressors Association (ASA), the Firearms & Ammunition Import/Export Roundtable, and Heritage Action.

To learn more, click on this link: https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-pushes-back-biden-administrations-continued-erosion-2nd-amendment