FR 2021-01962

The document is a notice from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), part of the Department of Justice (DOJ), and it discusses an information collection request involving ATF Form 6NIA (5330.3D). This form allows nonimmigrant aliens to apply for and receive permits for the temporary importation of firearms and ammunition into the United States, primarily for purposes like hunting. The notice invites public comments on this proposed extension and change to the current form, aligning with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Comments are solicited for up to 30 days from the publication date.

General Summary

This notice is a procedural step whereby the ATF seeks to extend and modify an existing information collection. Specifically, it involves the "Application and Permit for Temporary Importation of Firearms and Ammunition by Nonimmigrant Aliens." The form facilitates a lawful process for non-U.S. residents to temporarily bring firearms into the country. Around 15,000 people are anticipated to submit this form each year, with the estimated completion time for the form being 30 minutes per respondent.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the document provides a basic overview of the process and invites public feedback, it omits several key details:

• Lack of Detailed Rationale for Changes: The notice mentions an "extension with change" but fails to specify what changes are being proposed to the form or the information collection process. This lack of clarity could hinder the public’s ability to provide informed comments.

• Unclear Instructions for Public Comment: The instructions for submitting comments are somewhat convoluted. Those unfamiliar with navigating government websites, such as reginfo.gov, might struggle to find the correct place to submit their feedback.

• Estimated Completion Time Justification: There is no explanation as to why 30 minutes is required to complete the form. Without context or evidence supporting this estimate, it may seem arbitrary.

Impact on the Public

Broadly speaking, this document influences a niche segment of the public—specifically, nonimmigrant aliens interested in importing firearms into the U.S. The impact lies in the form's design, which is pivotal for ensuring safety and adherence to U.S. laws concerning firearms.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Nonimmigrant Alien Firearm Users: This group will directly be impacted as they engage with the form to import firearms for activities like hunting. The clarity, efficiency, and ease of understanding the form are crucial for them to comply with U.S. regulations.

• Public Safety and Regulatory Bodies: Ensuring this process is streamlined and regulates firearm importation strictly affects broader public safety. Any changes to the form or process should ideally facilitate a balance between individual rights and societal security.

• Advocacy and Interest Groups: Organizations focused on gun control or the rights of nonimmigrants may respond to this notice, as any regulatory adjustments could align or conflict with their advocacy goals.

In conclusion, while this notice serves as an initial step in potentially modifying ATF Form 6NIA, it lacks detailed explanations on proposed changes, thereby limiting public engagement and feedback. Addressing these informational gaps and enhancing clarity would not only improve public participation but also ensure that any modifications ultimately serve everyone's interests more effectively.