If the Government Shuts Down, What Happens to the FBI's Gun Purchase Background Check System?

This must be an oversight on the Obama administration’s part. Your Second Amendment rights will not be impacted by a government shutdown. The FBI has told gun retailers that government shutdown or not, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) will remain alive and ready to handle gun purchases.

According to the National Rifle Association’s Institute for Legislative Action, NICS will remain up and running even if there is a government shutdown.

Last week the NRA-ILA reported, “The NICS system will continue to operate,” because “Law enforcement activities are designated as essential services and do not shut down even if the Congress and President fail to agree on funding legislation.”

The Bureau confirmed that in an email to gun sellers today. That didn’t stop CNN from trying to confuse people.

14. How will this affect me?

In ways big and small. The mail will continue to come. The military will continue to fight. And Social Security checks will continue to be paid.

But if you need a federal loan to buy a house, you’ll have to wait. If you want a gun permit or a passport, that won’t happen anytime soon.

Yes it will. CNN needs to issue a correction.

So, good news: Even if the government shuts down, you’ll still be able to pick up that Glock you’ve had your eye on.

I continue to struggle to find reasons to care whether the government “shuts down” or not. None are springing to mind, to be honest.