Gun Records Restoration and Preservation Act

Gun Records Restoration and Preservation Act proposes broad changes to federal gun data rules that were shaped by the Tiahrt Amendments and related appropriations provisions. The bill aims to restore and preserve gun-record data by repealing several restrictions on how background check records, trace data, and firearms acquisition/disposition records can be retained, shared, and used. It would remove the requirement that certain instant background check records be destroyed within 24 hours, authorize centralization or consolidation of records held by federal and licensed gun dealers, and permit broader processing of FOIA requests related to firearm traces and related incidents. It also would reintroduce or strengthen requirements for dealers to conduct physical inventory checks. Overall, the measure seeks to improve data availability for enforcement, policy development, and research, while potentially expanding access to information that had previously been limited or time-bound. Potential impact includes stronger tools for tracking illegal gun trafficking, evaluating the effects of gun laws, and supporting public safety efforts. At the same time, the changes raise privacy and data-security considerations for individuals who undergo background checks and for gun owners and dealers who maintain records.