ATF proposes requiring "biological sex" on firearms and explosives forms

Date: May 6, 2026
Actor: DOJ / Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
Agency: Department of Justice (DOJ)
Type: Proposed rule
Section: 2026 DEVELOPMENTS SWEEP (JANUARY–AUGUST 2026)

Summary

ATF publishes "Selecting Biological Sex on ATF Forms" (doc. 2026-08932), proposing to require individuals completing ATF firearms and explosives forms (including Form 4473 background-check paperwork) to select their "biological sex," foreclosing sex designations consistent with gender identity on federal firearms paperwork. Comments closed August 4, 2026. (see also sections 3, 6)

Status

Comment period closed; final rule pending.

As recorded in the data of November 3, 2026. Check the sources for anything newer.

Documents

Selecting Biological Sex on ATF Forms

Proposed Rule · May 6, 2026 · 91 FR 24462 · Document number 2026-08932 · 5 pages

Original: govinfo.gov(opens another site)PDF, external

Selecting Biological Sex on ATF Forms, 91 Fed. Reg. 24,462 (proposed May 6, 2026) (to be codified at 27 C.F.R. pts. 478, 479, 555).

Sources

federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/06/2026-08932/selecting-biological-sex-on…(opens another site)

Cite this action

Selecting Biological Sex on ATF Forms, 91 Fed. Reg. 24,462 (proposed May 6, 2026) (to be codified at 27 C.F.R. pts. 478, 479, 555).

Short form: 91 Fed. Reg. at 24,462.