Larry Pratt Debunks the “Gun Show Loophole” on Fox Business

Published on January 8, 2016
Duration: 2:45

Larry Pratt of Gun Owners of America debunks the "gun show loophole" myth on Fox Business. He clarifies that federally licensed firearms dealers, who comprise the majority of sellers at gun shows, are legally required to conduct federal background checks on all sales. Pratt argues that the President lacks the authority to redefine 'dealer' beyond the congressionally established definition, which focuses on making a living from firearm sales, not occasional transactions.

Quick Summary

Larry Pratt of Gun Owners of America clarifies that the "gun show loophole" is a myth. He explains that federally licensed firearms dealers, who are the majority of sellers at gun shows, are legally required to conduct federal background checks on all sales, leaving no loophole for them.

Chapters

  1. 00:00President Obama's Announcement on Gun Authority
  2. 00:39Introduction of Larry Pratt (GOA Executive Director)
  3. 00:49Pratt's Concerns about Presidential Overreach
  4. 01:03Defining a Firearms Dealer
  5. 01:41Discussion of Gun Shows and Background Checks
  6. 02:08Debunking the 'Gun Show Loophole' Myth

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of a firearms dealer according to Congress?

Congress defines a firearms dealer as someone who makes their living from selling firearms. This definition excludes individuals who engage in occasional sales or even make a substantial profit from a single event like a gun show.

Are all gun show sales subject to background checks?

Yes, the majority of sellers at gun shows are federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs). All sales conducted by FFLs are legally required to go through federal background checks, meaning gun show sales are not exempt.

Can the President redefine who is a firearms dealer?

No, according to Larry Pratt, the President does not have the legal authority to redefine a 'dealer' if Congress has already provided a specific, congressionally defined term in the law.

Is the 'gun show loophole' a real issue?

Larry Pratt argues that the concept of a 'gun show loophole' is a misrepresentation. He states that federally licensed dealers at gun shows must perform background checks, making the idea of a loophole either disingenuous or ignorant of the law.

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