DOJ Creates Pathway to Restore Gun Rights for Felons

The United States Department of Justice finalized a rule on August 17, 2026, creating a pathway for individuals with felony convictions to apply for the restoration of their federal firearm rights. Launched by Attorney General Todd Blanche following a directive from President Donald Trump, the initiative utilizes an online portal to bypass a 1992 congressional restriction that had effectively barred the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives from processing such applications.

Restoration is not automatic and will be granted on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must demonstrate that their record, reputation, and conduct prove they are not a danger to public safety. The department will maintain strong presumptions against relief for registered sex offenders, undocumented immigrants, and convicted violent criminals, unless extraordinary circumstances exist. The rule applies only to federal disabilities and leaves state-level restrictions intact, taking effect 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register.

Second Amendment advocates have praised the move as a victory for nonviolent felons. However, Kris Brown, president of Brady, criticized the administration for rolling back crime prevention policies and expressed concern that the process could restore rights to violent January 6 insurrectionists and domestic abusers.