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WASHINGTON, D.C.: The U.S. Justice Department has announced the finalization of a rule that mandates gun dealers to obtain federal licenses and conduct background checks, regardless of where they sell firearms, closing the so-called “gun show loophole.”

The rule aims to ensure that sellers at gun shows, online, and other venues adhere to the same background check requirements as traditional gun stores, tightening regulations on firearm sales.

Approximately 23,000 individuals engage in unlicensed gun dealing in the United States, with the rule expected to impact tens of thousands of gun sales annually, according to a White House official.

The U.S. witnessed a record number of children killed by guns in 2021, alongside a surge in mass shootings and significantly higher rates of gun-related deaths compared to other developed countries.

“Under this regulation, it will not matter if guns are sold on the internet, at a gun show, or at a brick-and-mortar store. If you sell guns predominantly to earn a profit, you must be licensed, and you must conduct background checks,” stated U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Proposed by the Justice Department in August, the rule underwent public comment before submission to the Federal Register this week. It will take effect 30 days after publication, enhancing background checks but not constituting a universal requirement. Certain transfers, such as those among family members, will still be exempt.

In June 2022, U.S. lawmakers passed federal gun reform legislation, prompted by a series of mass shootings and a Supreme Court decision expanding firearm owners’ rights.

President Joe Biden issued an executive order in March 2023 to broaden background checks for gun purchases, urging further action from Congress to combat gun violence.

Anticipating legal challenges, gun rights groups are expected to contest the rule in court.

Republican lawmakers, including U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis, plan to introduce a joint resolution of disapproval to overturn the new rule, citing concerns over executive overreach, a spokesperson for Cornyn’s office said on Thursday.

“The administration is acting lawlessly here,” the spokesperson said.