“Past problems in which the duties of the BATFE have been called into question demonstrate a clear need for reform,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “Too often, I see the firearm dealing and licensing process is made more difficult by confusion over the Bureau’s authority and instructions.  This legislation will clarify guidelines for gun ownership and strengthen Second Amendment rights.”

            H.R. 5092, which Rehberg co-sponsored, requires that civil penalties for violations of firearm laws be based on the nature of the violation and the size of the business involved.  It also adds new regulations to the licensing process that allow the purchaser a better opportunity to make a case when they are denied licensing based on lack of information.  Finally, this bill requires that the attorney general establish formal guidelines for the ATF to investigate violations and requires that the inspector general conduct a review of the ATF’s gun show enforcement programs.