The Justice Department has decided not to challenge a federal court ruling that struck down federal registration requirements for semi-automatic rifles, short-barreled rifles, and other firearms. The August 5 ruling from the US District Court in the Northern District of Texas is being celebrated by some pro-life advocates and gun rights advocates as a major victory in their goal to gut the 1934 National Firearms Act.

Confusion Among Gun Owners

The decision has caused confusion among gun owners, with some seeking clarity about whether they can lawfully buy semi-automatic rifles without registration. The judge’s order blocking the registration requirements applies to “plaintiffs and certain other individuals and entities that are closely associated with the plaintiffs,” including Gun Owners of America, which has members around the country.

The lawsuit was filed in 2025 immediately after Congress removed the tax tied to the National Firearms Act registration requirements. GOP Rep. Andrew Clyde, who helped lead the effort to remove the tax, is among a group of lawmakers pushing Attorney General Todd Blanche to not appeal the ruling.

Gun safety advocates have spoken out about the Justice Department’s decision not to defend the law. “Today’s ruling is a dangerous step backward for public safety,” said Adam Skaggs, vice president and chief counsel at GIFFORDS Law Center. “For nearly 100 years, Congress has required background checks before someone could buy a silencer, short-barreled rifle, or short-barreled shotgun.”

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.