ATF proposes a definition of “willfully” for Gun Control Act violations

ATF proposed defining “willfully” for certain Gun Control Act enforcement actions as intentional conduct undertaken with actual knowledge that the conduct is unlawful. The proposal also addresses when a licensee or responsible person could be treated as willful based on an employee’s violation. This standard is proposed, not a final change to enforcement rules. The public comment deadline was August 6, 2026.

Source: Federal Register / ATF