Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul has joined a group of 44 other senators in demanding answers from the Biden administration over its decision to pause the issuance of firearms export licenses. In a letter addressed to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, the senators express concerns about the economic impact and potential infringement on Second Amendment rights resulting from this unprecedented move.

The letter states that the firearms industry estimates a direct cost of at least $89 million associated with the 90-day pause and at least $238 million annually if the pause becomes permanent. The senators argue that the Biden administration's decision could cripple the industry and undermine the rights of gun owners.

According to the letter, the senators are concerned that the Biden administration is using unfounded national security concerns to advance its anti-gun agenda. They are calling on the Department of Commerce to thoroughly explain the reasoning behind the pause and identify any national security and foreign policy interests involved. The senators have demanded a response to their inquiry by November 30.

The letter also highlights the exemption of Ukraine and Israel from the pause due to their need for firearms for self-defense. The senators point out that these countries have taken steps to fulfill their citizens' self-defense needs by distributing weapons to civilians.

The senators raise further concerns about the impact of the pause on U.S. commercial and economic interests. They argue that the pause puts at stake the business interests of firearm exporters and may create opportunities for illicit arms markets to flourish.

The letter concludes with a series of questions and requests for information, including the reasoning behind the pause, the impact on national security and foreign policy interests, and the engagement of industry stakeholders and advocacy organizations in the decision-making process.

Dr. Paul and Senator Ted Budd initiated this effort, with support from Senators Mitch McConnell, John Thune, and several others. The group of senators seeks transparency and accountability from the Biden administration regarding its decision to pause firearms export licenses.

The Biden administration's decision has sparked concern among senators who believe that it could have severe economic consequences and infringe on the rights of gun owners. The senators are demanding answers and are expecting a response from Secretary Raimondo by the end of November.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.paul.senate.gov/dr-rand-paul-joins-effort-to-demand-answers-over-biden-administrations-unprecedented-pause-of-firearms-export-licenses/