NJ, Dozen+ States Unite to Protect Gun Regulation & Strengthen Background Checks

In a significant move to maintain current firearm safety standards, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced that he is leading a coalition of over a dozen states intervening to defend two regulations set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). These measures—one prohibiting so-called “forced reset triggers” (FRTs) and another expanding the background-check requirements for firearm dealers—could be jeopardized by the incoming Trump Administration’s stated intention to withdraw the government’s defense of both rules.

“Protecting our residents and combating gun violence has always been my top priority — resulting in two years running of record-low shootings,” said Attorney General Platkin. “But we can’t do it alone, and we count on federal partners to ensure illegal weapons don’t end up within our borders, or that buyers go through basic background checks. The incoming Administration has threatened these common-sense protections, so States are stepping in. We will fight devices that allow dangerous people to turn their guns into illegal military-style machine guns. And we will fight to close the gun show loophole so that felons and domestic abusers can’t get their hands on weapons by evading background checks. Any time the Trump Administration stands down to the gun industry, state Attorneys General will stand up for Americans across our country in the battle to end the gun violence epidemic.”

Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs): Also known as Machinegun Conversion Devices, FRTs can convert semiautomatic guns into fully automatic weapons, dramatically increasing their rate of fire. ATF has deemed such conversion devices illegal under federal law. State officials cite at least 26 criminal cases where MCDs—including FRTs—were found. One incident involved a shooter who allegedly fired 28 rounds in just over one second, injuring three people.

A federal judge in Texas previously ruled that FRTs are not machine guns and enjoined the ATF from enforcing its prohibition. The federal government appealed, but a final ruling is pending.

“Engaged in the Business” Final Rule: This rule, derived from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, broadens the definition of who must obtain a federal firearms license. Under it, an estimated 25,000 to 95,000 additional individuals or businesses would need to conduct background checks and maintain sales records. Officials warn that striking down the rule would make it easier for felons or others prohibited from owning firearms to bypass background checks.

The incoming Trump Administration has signaled its intent to roll back or refrain from defending various ATF rulings, prompting New Jersey and other states to intervene.

New Jersey’s Role and Broader Coalition

Attorney General Platkin has been proactive in addressing machinegun conversion devices, including a recent lawsuit against Glock over “Glock switches” that also enable illegal automatic fire. In New Jersey, matters related to FRTs and the “Engaged in the Business” rule are being handled by teams of deputy and assistant attorneys general.

“Since day one, our administration has been committed to creating safer communities for all of our residents. The policies implemented over the past seven years have proven successful, leading to record lows in gun violence statewide last year,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Our residents deserve to feel safe in every space they occupy, which is why we will continue to take all necessary actions to build on the progress we have made, keeping public safety at the forefront of our decisions.”

Joining New Jersey in one or both filings are Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

Why It Matters

By intervening before the courts, the states aim to shield federal firearms regulations from potential rollback. Officials argue that allowing FRTs to proliferate would increase mass shooting risks and thwart ongoing efforts to curb illegal gun trafficking. Expanding background checks is similarly seen as crucial to preventing firearms from landing in the hands of those legally barred from ownership.

With the final outcome likely to hinge on pending federal litigation, Attorney General Platkin and his coalition underscore their commitment to safeguarding these policies amid a shifting legal and political landscape—one that threatens to undo or weaken key elements of federal gun safety regulations.

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