Government shutdown and NICS?

[Andy Griffith]

No, this isn't a political post.

I'm just wondering if most dealers know that in the event of a major, long-period shutdown of the NICS system that they know the procedures in place to still sell firearms.

I'm trying to read up on them myself- although I am not a dealer.

 

[Maximumbob54]

I asked this same question in a different thread and there never was an answer to it. I'm still curious as well. It's my understanding that a shutdown doesn't really mean everyone goes home and locks up. It is really only a partial shutdown. Since the blocking of sales of firearms would be a pretty direct violation of the Second Amendment then I am assuming that NICS will at least have someone answering phones for checks. But this is me "assuming" again...

 

[Andy Griffith]

Here's the problem...

If I read and understand correctly (big if there, so this may or may not be correct) if NICS has not given a dealer an approval or denial within three business days from the call in, the dealer may proceed with the transaction. Of course, waiting periods may apply in certain states. The problem is, the above scenario only specifies if the dealer has contacted NICS. What if the dealer can't contact NICS because it is closed because no one shows up for work?

The dealers that I know, typically will not proceed with a transaction anyway until they get an approval- even if it has been over three business days.

Now, since I in a state that uses a pistol permit as an exception to the system- I'm fine- but most people aren't.

 

[Maximumbob54]

I live in FL and we also do the now wait for permit holders. But I think we still have to do the call in before we cash and carry. Someone please chime in if they know for sure. This may be the best reasoning I have for finally giving the state their $117...

 

[deralte]

Just as long as they don't shut down refrigerator sales - mines going on the blink.

 

[badguybuster]

Thats true. I got delayed on Thursday and the FFL called today and said I could pick it up cuz they never heard back.

 

[nogods]

I'm guessing the NICS system shuts down. Paper tax returns and passport applications won't be processed during a government shutdown.

 

[GKC]

Interesting question...I was in my local gun shop today, and I asked them about the impact on approvals. They said they didn't anticipate any problem. I don't know on what basis of fact or knowledge that they said this, but that is what they said.

 

[stantheman86]

NICS checks in PA are run by the State Police, but whether they use an ATF or other govt. database to do the checks, I don't know. I have to pick up a few guns from my dealer in a few days, so I hope I don't get turned away.

 

[PDL]

So far the news reports I've seen haven't mentioned NICS specifically. But they say that agencies that have dual funding, like fees and stuff won't be shut down. We've got to pay $20 for a NICS check here. I'd consider that a fee, don't know if the anti-gun Dems will though.

 

[bk43]

I live in FL and we also do the now wait for permit holders. But I think we still have to do the call in before we cash and carry. Someone please chime in if they know for sure. This may be the best reasoning I have for finally giving the state their $117...

In Florida the dealer calls the state, not NCIC, so any purchase in Florida is not affected by a national shutdown.

BTW, this way it's a revenue generator for the state. It is also the reason CCW holders get called in, it has nothing to do with anything but money for state coffers.

Bob

 

[PDL]

So I've got a new firearm to pickup from my local gun pusher, I couldn't let this question go.
The NRA-ILA sent me a note back that they had contacted NICS, whoever. They were told that NICS checks were recognized as essential and would be maned and carried on thru any shutdown that may or may not occur.

 

[tom turner]

I dunno . . . but the military gets one more paycheck, for half what's due 'em and no more money until this mess gets settled. I think that these other concerns shrink in comparison to the spot they are in.

BTW, my wife will lose her income during this mess too, as will many others. Congre$$ and the White House get paid as usual, so we are still in "good hands."

T.

PS: Boy, I wonder who will get the most mileage out of the first case where an NCIS background check is failed to be done and some career criminal gets a gun and uses it on innocent people.

 

[oldman45]

THis has all happened before and few even noticed.

Life goes one. The phones will still be manned and computers will continue to make the background checks.

I doubt there will be a shutdown as nobody wants to see that and until the last minute, it will all be a lot of hot air coming out of D.C.

 

[hhb]

NICS

Non essential service, look for it to shut down. If the dealer is collecting a feel for a NICS check, it doesn't go to the FBI.NICS checks are free where I live.

 

[oldman45]

Just as I predicted in my earlier post.

A last minute deal was reached. Without being politicial here, both sides knew this would be a done deal.