Private gun transfers would require background checks
In committeeH.R. 18Latest action
Sponsor: Mike Thompson · Representative · CA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
HR 18 would require a background check for all private firearm transfers, with exceptions for close family, emergencies, and inheritance.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill would extend the federal background check requirement to private firearm sales and transfers, not just sales through licensed dealers. Anyone transferring a gun privately would need to go through a licensed dealer, importer, or manufacturer to complete the check first. Exceptions include gifts or loans between close family members, emergencies involving imminent harm, supervised use at ranges or while hunting, and inherited firearms.
Who does it affect?
This affects any private citizen who wants to sell, give, or lend a firearm to another private citizen outside the listed exceptions. Licensed gun dealers, importers, and manufacturers would be the ones running the checks for these private transfers.
Why does it matter?
Currently, private sales and transfers between individuals do not require a background check the way dealer sales do. This bill would close that gap, meaning more transfers would go through the federal check process before a gun changes hands.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 10, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Jun 10, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.