Supreme Court Upholds Biden-Era Rule On Regulation Of "Ghost Guns"

The US Supreme Court has upheld a Biden administration rule regulating "ghost guns," which are unserialized parts or kits that can be assembled into completed firearms. The 7-2 decision, written by Justice Neil Gorsuch, allows the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to continue regulating these kits. The rule also opens the door to requiring background checks and age verification for purchasing the kits. Gun control advocates have opposed the kits, citing their untraceability and potential attractiveness to criminals. Justice Gorsuch noted that while hobbyists may enjoy assembling the kits, criminals also find them appealing. The rule requires companies to treat the kits like other firearms, adding serial numbers, running background checks, and verifying buyers are at least 21 years old. Sellers of the parts kits had challenged the rule, arguing that a collection of parts was not a firearm and therefore not subject to the Gun Control Act of 1968. However, the Supreme Court overturned a 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decision that had struck down the ATF ghost gun rule. Second Amendment advocates are expressing disappointment at the decision, acknowledging the challenges federal regulators face in controlling guns, especially with the rise of 3D printing. The ruling is seen as a significant development in the ongoing debate over gun control in the United States.