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Updated October 28, 2026

The National Firearms Act: Is the 1934 Gun Law Still Enforceable?

A Depression-era tax, ninety years of challenges, the court order that changed the rules, and the ATF stand-down that followed

Since 1934, the National Firearms Act has taxed and registered suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns. On August 5, 2026, a federal court held the NFA's registration and approval scheme unconstitutional for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns — because Congress cut the tax behind it to zero. The injunction does not cover everyone, and Missouri did not join the suit. Updated October 2026: the government did not appeal, and on October 9 ATF stopped enforcing those requirements nationwide. Read this article for the history and what it means for you.