What ATF proposed
ATF proposed deleting from the regulatory definitions of “rifle” the paragraphs added by the 2023 stabilizing-brace rule. ATF’s notice acknowledges that multiple courts found problems with the 2023 rule and that the rule has been enjoined, stayed, or vacated in litigation.
Current status
The comment period ended August 4, 2026. Because the regulatory history and litigation are unusual, members should distinguish the status of the 2023 rule, existing court orders, and this 2026 proposal rather than treating any one headline as the entire legal analysis.
Primary source: ATF — Removing Factoring Criteria for Firearms With Attached “Stabilizing Braces” (1140-AA98) ↗
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