Federal Judge Orders More Briefing in Challenge to NFA Registration Scheme

Summary

A federal judge in Missouri, Chief U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark, issued an order on March 24, 2026, in *Brown v. ATF*, directing supplemental briefing in a high-profile case challenging the NFA's registration scheme for suppressors and short-barreled rifles. The lawsuit contends Congress exceeded its powers by maintaining registration after the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" reduced NFA taxes to $0, and argues the NFA's regulation of SBRs and suppressors violates the Second Amendment. The court is seeking further input on Article III standing, the interpretation of "common use" under *Heller* and *Bruen*, and whether suppressors qualify as "Arms."