Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Ted Cruz, Cynthia Lummis, Thom Tillis, Jim Risch, Katie Britt, and Kevin Cramer have urged the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to halt rulemaking activities in preparation for the incoming Trump administration. In a letter addressed to ATF Director Steve Dettelbach, they emphasized the importance of focusing on a smooth transition.

The senators wrote: “We write to strongly encourage the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to firmly commit to and focus on preparing for the transition to the incoming Administration of President-elect Donald J. Trump. The incoming Administration, including our next Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General, and ATF Director must have the opportunity and ability to set ATF’s priorities and future direction. ATF’s ability to achieve its statutory mission of combatting violent crime depends on a smooth and effective transition.”

They further recommended that "ATF suspend and refrain from issuing any further rulemaking," which includes rulings or open letters unless directly supporting criminal investigations. They also advised against making formal recommendations to Congress or launching new regulatory initiatives.

The letter highlighted concerns that new policy initiatives could create instability during this period. It stated: “Any new policy initiatives undertaken at this late stage will only create instability and detract from the transition and ATF’s focus on its primary mission.”

The communication concluded with an acknowledgment of Director Dettelbach's service: “We thank you for your service as ATF Director and look forward to receiving your continued cooperation during the transition.”