Bill > S730

This bill, titled the Firearm Straw Purchasing and Trafficking Prevention Act, aims to prevent individuals prohibited from owning firearms from acquiring them through illegal means. It introduces new federal offenses for "straw purchasing," which is when someone buys a firearm on behalf of another person they know is prohibited from owning one or intends to use it for a crime, such as a crime of violence, a drug trafficking crime, or a Federal crime of terrorism. The bill also criminalizes "trafficking in firearms," making it illegal to ship, transport, or transfer two or more firearms to someone who would use them illegally or who is prohibited from possessing them, and also prohibits receiving such firearms. Penalties for these offenses can include fines and imprisonment for up to 15 years, with enhanced penalties of up to 20 years for those acting as organizers or leaders in such activities. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for lying when purchasing a firearm and amends existing laws to address the knowing transfer or receipt of firearms intended for criminal use, including those related to drug trafficking, terrorism, and violations of international trade laws. The United States Sentencing Commission is also directed to review and amend sentencing guidelines to ensure stricter penalties for straw purchasing and firearm trafficking offenses, particularly for those affiliated with criminal enterprises.