Trump AG Todd Blanche wants to give felons back their guns

Newly sworn-in Attorney General Todd Blanche is opening a path for millions of Americans — including people with felony convictions — to seek restoration of their federal gun rights. On Tuesday, Blanche finalized a rule and launched a new process allowing certain people barred from firearm ownership to apply for relief from that prohibition. Under the Gun Control Act, several categories of people are prohibited from transporting, receiving or possessing firearms, according to the ATF.

They include people convicted of crimes punishable by more than a year in prison, fugitives from justice, unlawful users of controlled substances, undocumented immigrants and people dishonorably discharged from the military. Pardon Attorney Edward Martin said roughly 30 million Americans have lost their gun rights. The Justice Department’s new process will allow eligible individuals to apply for restoration, though approval will not be automatic.

Some groups will “remain presumptively ineligible for relief,” including undocumented immigrants, violent felons and registered sex offenders. Relief granted through the federal process also would not supersede state-level firearm restrictions. The final rule takes effect in 30 days, when applicants will be able to submit applications online.

The Justice Department estimates that about 330,000 people could apply during the program’s first year. Blanche, Trump’s former personal attorney, previously served as deputy attorney general and acting attorney general. The Senate confirmed him as attorney general earlier this month in a 50-49 vote.

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies