The Biden-Harris Administration recently unveiled a new Department of Justice rule to bolster firearm background checks, in line with the mandates set by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. This regulation represents the most significant enhancement in firearm sales regulation since the 1993 Brady Bill. Its primary goal is to diminish gun violence by ensuring that fewer firearms are sold without proper background checks. The rule mandates that an increased number of gun sellers, including those previously operating without licenses at gun shows and online, must now become licensed and conduct background checks. Specifically, the DOJ rule defines certain behaviors, like repetitive sales or advertising firearms for sale, as indications that a seller must obtain a license.The implications of this rule are substantial; it is estimated to affect over 20,000 previously unlicensed sellers and could influence tens of thousands of gun sales each year. It empowers the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) with more robust tools to enforce gun laws and address illegal firearms trafficking. Beyond the specific rule, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken broader steps to curb gun violence, including initiating new law enforcement strike forces, implementing the first federal gun trafficking law, regulating ghost guns, and pushing for increased ATF funding and the confirmation of a permanent ATF Director.President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to advocate for Congress to pass universal background check legislation and to approve increased funding for ATF, emphasizing the necessity of these measures in their ongoing effort to stop the illegal flow of guns and reduce gun-related violence. This new action underscores the administration's committed effort to make communities safer by tightening regulations on gun sales.During a press teleconference, Vice President Harris addressed the need for stronger gun control measures. She emphasized the urgency of closing the "gun show loophole," which has allowed unlicensed dealers to sell guns without background checks. She announced a new rule requiring all gun dealers to conduct background checks regardless of the sales venue. The Vice President highlighted her support for the Second Amendment and reasonable gun safety laws. She concluded by urging Congress to pass comprehensive gun control legislation, including universal background checks and an assault weapons ban.Today, key Biden-Harris Administration officials convened with advocates, including early educators, care workers, and others, to discuss the strides in enhancing affordability and quality in the care sector. This event, part of Care Workers Recognition Month, aimed to honor those driving care initiatives nationwide, covering sectors like child care and home-based services for the elderly and disabled. Following President Biden’s supportive remarks at a recent rally, the gathering featured several notable participants, such as Xavier Becerra and Neera Tanden, and spotlighted personal stories from various care sectors.President Biden has announced his intent to nominate several individuals to key roles in his administration. Amanda S. Jacobsen is nominated as Ambassador to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea; she has extensive diplomatic experience, including roles in Botswana and Ethiopia. Christophe Andre Tocco is nominated as Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, currently overseeing policy and resource management at USAID. Shirley Sagawa is nominated for the Corporation for National and Community Service's Board; she has a long history in social policy and has served in various administrations. Heather M. Cahoon is nominated as a trustee for the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, bringing her expertise in Native American studies and policy. Ashley Jay Elizabeth Poling and Ann C. Fisher are nominated to continue their roles as Commissioners of the Postal Regulatory Commission. With backgrounds in government affairs and postal services, respectively, these nominees bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their prospective positions.The U.S. Department of State hosted a state luncheon in Washington, D.C., featuring Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. Secretary Blinken highlighted the historical and contemporary bonds between the U.S. and Japan, emphasizing advancements in security cooperation, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. He also noted the cultural exchanges that have influenced both nations, such as baseball and cinema.Prime Minister Kishida reflected on his personal experiences in the U.S. and reiterated the strength of the Japan-U.S. alliance, expressing gratitude towards American leaders and acknowledging the shared commitment to global security and prosperity. Vice President Harris praised the enduring partnership, drawing on her ...
