WASHINGTON: A proposed change to US firearm regulations has sparked debate after it emerged that an online gun retailer linked to US President Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., could benefit significantly if the rule comes into effect. The proposal, introduced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), would allow licensed firearm dealers to ship guns directly to eligible buyers’ homes within the same state, subject to strict verification requirements.

If finalised, the proposal would mark one of the most significant changes to US firearm sales regulations in nearly two decades. Supporters say it would modernise gun purchases by making them more convenient, while critics argue it could increase safety risks and hurt traditional gun stores.

What is the proposed firearm rule?

Under the proposed regulation, federally licensed firearm dealers would be allowed to deliver firearms directly to customers residing in the same state after completing several mandatory checks.

The proposal requires:

  • Online identity verification
  • A federal background check
  • A seven-day waiting period
  • Prior notification to local law enforcement

Currently, Americans purchasing firearms online must collect their weapons from a licensed gun dealer, where they undergo an in-person background check unless exempt through specific firearm permits.

The ATF estimates that around half of all firearm buyers could eventually choose home delivery if the proposal becomes law.

How Donald Trump Jr. is connected

Donald Trump Jr. is an investor, shareholder and board member of GrabAGun, one of the largest online firearm retailers in the United States.

He reportedly owns more than 3 lakh shares in the company. Although the value of those holdings has declined significantly over the past year due to the company’s falling share price, analysts say easier online firearm deliveries could potentially increase the retailer’s business if consumer demand rises.

Trump Jr.’s spokesperson said he had “zero involvement” in developing the proposed ATF rule.

According to the statement, Trump Jr. does not participate in government policymaking related to companies in which he has investments and played no role in drafting the proposal.

GrabAGun Chief Executive Officer Marc Nemati also said neither he nor Trump Jr. had prior knowledge of the proposed regulation before it became public.

Why GrabAGun could gain

GrabAGun operates primarily as an online-first firearm retailer.

Under the existing system, customers purchasing firearms through its website must visit a local licensed firearm dealer to complete identity verification and collect the weapon.

Removing that requirement would significantly simplify the purchasing process for eligible buyers.

Industry experts interviewed by Reuters believe online firearm retailers could experience substantial business growth if direct home delivery becomes legal.

The ATF estimates consumers could collectively save more than USD 103 million annually by eliminating travel and processing time associated with in-store collections.

Although GrabAGun may benefit, analysts note that several competing retailers with online operations could also take advantage of the rule.

Critics warn of safety concerns

Gun-control organisations have strongly opposed the proposal.

Groups including Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady and Giffords argue that allowing firearms to be shipped directly to residential addresses could increase risks such as:

  • Illegal firearm trafficking
  • Package theft
  • Straw purchases, where an eligible buyer purchases a firearm for someone prohibited from owning one
  • Reduced opportunities for trained firearm dealers to identify suspicious behaviour

Critics also argue that face-to-face interactions at licensed gun stores serve as an additional layer of public safety that online verification cannot fully replace.

Small gun shops fear business losses

Apart from safety concerns, many small firearm dealers believe the proposal could significantly affect their businesses.

Currently, local gun stores earn transfer fees—often around USD 30 per firearm—for handling online firearm deliveries and completing mandatory paperwork.

These customer visits frequently generate additional sales of ammunition, accessories and safety equipment.

Many smaller retailers fear that direct home deliveries would reduce foot traffic and eliminate an important source of income.

Several store owners have already submitted objections during the public consultation process.

ATF says the proposal modernises firearm sales

ATF officials maintain that the proposal is designed to modernise firearm purchasing while maintaining security standards.

The agency says advanced digital identity verification systems can provide safeguards comparable to, or even stronger than, traditional in-person verification.

Officials also argue that the current retail model does not always prevent illegal purchases, noting that some stores simply process paperwork without conducting meaningful behavioural assessments.

The proposal is one of 34 deregulatory measures introduced by the ATF following a presidential executive order issued earlier this year aimed at expanding lawful firearm access.

Rule still under public consultation

The proposed regulation has not yet been approved.

It is currently open for public comments until early August, after which the ATF will review feedback before deciding whether to finalise, modify or withdraw the proposal.

If adopted, the rule is expected to come into force no earlier than late 2026 or early 2027.

The debate highlights the broader divide in the United States over balancing firearm accessibility with public safety. While supporters view the proposal as a natural extension of modern online commerce, opponents argue that firearms require stricter oversight than ordinary consumer products. The final decision is likely to attract close scrutiny from lawmakers, gun rights advocates and public safety organisations alike.