DOJ establishes process for restoring federal gun rights for certain individuals

Attorney General Todd Blanche announced a new process on August 17, 2026, allowing certain individuals barred from possessing firearms to apply for the restoration of their federal firearm rights. Under the final rule, applicants must demonstrate the circumstances of their prohibition and prove they do not pose a danger to public safety. The Justice Department stated that violent felons, registered sex offenders, illegal aliens, and others deemed a danger will remain ineligible for relief unless extraordinary circumstances exist. The rule only removes applicable federal firearms disabilities and does not affect state law restrictions. The National Rifle Association (NRA) expressed support for the restoration of Second Amendment rights for individuals who have fulfilled their obligations to society, noting that while the final rule did not fully align with their suggestions, it represents progress. This announcement follows recent developments favoring gun rights advocates, including a ruling that allows possession of certain firearms without federal registration.