The Gun Control Act of 1968 and why it matters - The Legal Brief!

Published on August 24, 2016
Duration: 7:50

The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) is a foundational federal law regulating firearms in the United States. It expanded the definition of prohibited persons, reimplemented licensing for manufacturers, importers, and dealers, and introduced the concept of licensed collectors for curios and relics. The GCA also mandated serial numbers on firearms and amended the National Firearms Act (NFA) to include destructive devices, establishing the 'Title I' and 'Title II' firearm classifications.

Quick Summary

The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) is a foundational federal law that significantly shaped current firearm regulations in the United States. It expanded the definition of prohibited persons, mandated licensing for firearm businesses, required serial numbers on firearms, and amended the National Firearms Act (NFA) to include destructive devices, establishing 'Title I' and 'Title II' firearm classifications.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to The Legal Brief
  2. 00:11The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA)
  3. 01:10Precursors: National Firearms Act & Federal Firearms Act
  4. 01:45Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968
  5. 02:18Passage of the Gun Control Act of 1968
  6. 02:35Prohibited Persons under the GCA
  7. 03:10Licensing Requirements and Collectors
  8. 03:25Ammunition Shipping Restrictions
  9. 03:46Serial Numbers on Firearms
  10. 04:25Federal Firearms Relief
  11. 04:59Current Status of Federal Firearms Relief
  12. 05:59GCA Amendments to the NFA
  13. 06:14Title I vs. Title II Firearms
  14. 06:19Subsequent Amendments to the GCA
  15. 06:38Summary of GCA's Impact
  16. 07:09Looking Ahead: Firearms Owner Protection Act
  17. 07:19Call to Action & Social Media

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gun Control Act of 1968 and why is it important?

The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) is a foundational federal law that significantly shaped current firearm regulations in the United States. It expanded the definition of prohibited persons, mandated licensing for firearm businesses, required serial numbers on firearms, and amended the National Firearms Act.

Who is considered a prohibited person under the Gun Control Act of 1968?

Under the GCA, prohibited persons include individuals convicted of crimes punishable by over a year in prison, fugitives, unlawful drug users, and those adjudicated mentally defective or committed to mental institutions. These individuals cannot legally possess or receive firearms or ammunition.

Did the Gun Control Act of 1968 introduce serial numbers on firearms?

Yes, the GCA mandated that licensed manufacturers and importers identify each firearm they produce or import with a serial number engraved or cast on the receiver or frame. It also made it illegal to alter or remove these serial numbers.

What is the current status of federal firearms relief for prohibited persons?

While the GCA provided a mechanism for prohibited persons to petition for relief, Congress has annually blocked the ATF from using federal funds to conduct these determinations since the early 1990s. This effectively halts the process for individuals seeking to regain their firearm rights.

How did the Gun Control Act of 1968 affect the National Firearms Act (NFA)?

The GCA amended the NFA, leading to the classification of firearms into 'Title I' (regulated by the GCA) and 'Title II' (regulated by the NFA and its amendments). A key amendment was the addition of 'Destructive Devices' to the NFA's regulated items.

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