Here's something to keep an eye on if you run a gun shop or collect firearms.
Federal Judge Corey Maze just put the brakes on the *Butler v. Bondi* case—the NRA-backed lawsuit challenging ATF's overreaching 2024 "engaged in the business" rule. The case stays frozen until the Senate votes on Robert Cekada to become the permanent ATF Director.
**Why This Matters to You**
The Biden-era rule was a regulatory nightmare. ATF tried to classify casual sellers, anyone advertising online, and gun show regulars as unlicensed dealers—subjecting them to background checks, paperwork, and potential criminal charges. That's not what Congress intended when it wrote the firearms laws.
Last year, Judge Maze already ruled that ATF overstepped its authority and blocked key parts of the rule nationwide. Now he's waiting to see what happens with Cekada's confirmation before moving forward.
**Why the Wait?**
Here's the interesting part: the judge didn't fully explain his reasoning, but the writing's on the wall. If Cekada gets confirmed, he could direct ATF to revise, narrow, or even repeal portions of this rule through proper rulemaking. That might render the lawsuit unnecessary or lead to a negotiated resolution.
Cekada's a career law enforcement guy with over 30 years in the business, including two decades at ATF. Supporters say he wants to focus on violent criminals and traffickers—not harass hobbyists and collectors. That's a refreshing change from the Biden administration's approach.
The Senate Judiciary Committee already advanced his nomination 14-8 along party lines. Full confirmation should come soon.
**What This Means for Your Business**
If Cekada takes over and follows through on his promises, ATF might finally back off targeting everyday collectors and occasional sellers. That's good news for the shooting community and potentially for foot traffic in shops like ours.
Stay tuned—things are moving in the right direction.