AMMO Act

This bill tightens rules for selling and buying ammunition. It would require a federal license to be an ammunition dealer and add recordkeeping duties. It bans “straw” purchases of ammo (buying for someone who can’t legally buy) and limits bulk sales: in any 5-day period, a dealer could not sell more than 100 rounds of .50 caliber or more than 1,000 rounds of other calibers to one person. Buyers would have to show ID and sign a form certifying they are within the limits; making false statements would be a crime. Dealers must send copies of these forms to the Attorney General within 30 days, and the forms must be destroyed after 60 days unless needed for an active case. Dealers must keep a copy for at least two years. There are fines, temporary sales bans, and possible license revocation for violations, and shops must post signs explaining the rules.

The bill also adds background checks for most ammo sales by federally licensed sellers, using the existing NICS system. A recent state-issued permit that already required a background check could substitute. The bill says it does not create a federal gun or ammo registry and allows states to make their own related laws. It also authorizes up to $150 million to upgrade the background check system. ATF would publish yearly public reports on violations and trends. The changes would start 120 days after the bill becomes law.

Key points

• Who is affected: Ammunition dealers and buyers nationwide.
• What changes: License required to deal ammo; background checks for most ammo sales; 5-day limits on bulk purchases; ID, signed forms, and shop signage; stronger penalties; annual ATF reports.
• When: 120 days after enactment.