Federal Register #2026-21920

Final rule authorizes voluntary NICS firearm-handler background checks for eligible FFL personnel

The Department of Justice’s final rule authorizes voluntary FBI NICS firearm-handler background checks for eligible personnel at Federal Firearm Licensee businesses. - Government buyer and offices - U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) - Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Criminal Justice Information Services Division, NICS Section - Service described - Voluntary NICS firearm handler checks (FHCs) for eligible current or prospective employees, including qualifying independent contractors and agents who may access firearms, ammunition, or related manufacturing components - Checks require informed written consent and indicate whether available NICS information shows the person is prohibited from receiving or possessing firearms; results are Pass, Pending, or Did Not Pass - Generally limited to one check per eligible person every 12 months, with exceptions when there is reasonable cause to believe a potentially prohibiting event occurred - OEMs and vendors - No commercial OEMs or vendors are identified; this is a regulatory authorization, not a purchase of products or services.

Description

The U.S. Department of Justice is amending regulations governing the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The final rule authorizes Federal Firearm Licensees (FFLs) to voluntarily use NICS for employment background checks of certain current or prospective employees, including eligible independent contractors and agents. It describes how FFLs may conduct firearm handler background checks of eligible individuals after the rule takes effect. The rule is effective November 27, 2026.

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