Blanche creates new pathway for certain US citizens to regain federal gun rights

Blanche said applicants must establish the circumstances of their prohibition, prove they do not pose a public safety risk and then the Justice Department will also evaluate the applicant's record, reputation and subsequent conduct.

Published: August 17, 2026 6:00pm

Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Monday a new way for American citizens who have been barred from owning firearms to regain those rights if they do not pose a threat to public safety.

Blanche said applicants must establish the circumstances of their prohibition, prove they do not pose a public safety risk and then the Justice Department will also evaluate the applicant's record, reputation and subsequent conduct.

"The Second Amendment is not a second-class right, and the federal government should not permanently deprive Americans of a constitutional right without regard to whether they pose a danger to public safety," Blanche said in a statement. 

"This rule establishes a rigorous, commonsense process that protects the public while giving deserving Americans a real path to restoration," he added.

The National Rifle Association praised Blanche's decision, highlighting its record of championing for the full restoration of Second Amendment rights for individuals who paid their debts to society and are not dangerous.

"The NRA submitted extensive comments in response to the original proposal to ensure the process was fair, accessible, and consistent with the underlying statute," NRA Executive Director John Commerford said in a statement shared with Just The News. "While the final rule falls short on a few of these suggestions, it is an important step in the right direction. As ever, we will continue our advocacy to ensure no American is unduly deprived of the right to keep and bear arms."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage. 

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