Everytown Applauds ATF and DOJ for Launching New Initiatives to Crack Down on Machine Gun Conversion Devices

WASHINGTON — Today, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco announced new initiatives to crack down on the proliferation of machine gun conversion devices (MCDs), including those made with 3D printers, which convert semi-automatic rifles and handguns into guns capable of illegal automatic fire. Everytown for Gun Safety released the following statement in response:

“The proliferation of devices that turn handguns and rifles into illegal machine guns is a dream come true for criminals, and a nightmare for law enforcement,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “We applaud the DOJ and ATF for recognizing the dangers that come with advancements in technology and cracking down on machine gun conversion devices.”

Here’s what you need to know about ATF and DOJ’s new initiatives:

• Establishes the DOJ’s “Action Network to Terminate Illegal MCDs” to develop recommendations on how best to use DOJ resources to reduce the proliferation of MCDs and come up with best practices for work across law enforcement and government on joint initiatives and prosecution efforts to crack down on MCDs.

• Creates a national MCD training initiative (led by ATF) to train those on the front lines on the latest MCD technologies and enforcement initiatives.

• Designates a National MCD Coordinator at ATF to serve as hub of expertise for all partners.

• Directs U.S. Attorney Offices to prioritize MCD prosecutions under federal law through district-specific enforcement strategies.

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