Federal firearms regulators met with representatives of the arms industry on Friday to discuss weapons that can be made from parts purchased online, a sign that the Biden government can combat the proliferation of weapons known as ghost weapons.
The discussion led by officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and firearm manufacturers focused on a possible broadening of the definition of what counts as a firearm, according to the participants. Such a move may subject phantom weapons to the same regulations as other firearms.
“ATF routinely meets with regulated industry participants to discuss issues of mutual interest,” said April Langwell, a spokesman for the agency, before the meeting. “One such meeting is scheduled for this week, and ATF hopes to continue this important dialogue.”
The National Shooting Sports Foundation, which represents the arms industry, participated alongside several firearm manufacturers.
“We have not seen credible evidence and statistics demonstrating that this is a significant problem,” said Lawrence Keane, general counsel for the NSSF. “We are happy to have a dialogue with ATF, as we are always on issues that impact the industry.”