Central Louisiana News

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Ted Budd (R-NC), and 44 Republican colleagues have raised concerns over the Biden administration's decision to pause the issuance of export licenses for firearms, ammunition, and certain accessories to most overseas markets. The senators have demanded answers from the Bureau of Industry and Security regarding the justifications and ramifications of this unprecedented move.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Raimondo, the senators highlighted the potential impact of this pause on U.S. commercial and economic interests. The firearms and ammunition industry estimates a direct cost of at least $89 million associated with the 90-day pause and at least $238 million annually if the pause becomes permanent.

The senators expressed concerns that the pause could create an unmet demand, leading to opportunities for illicit arms markets to flourish. They emphasized the need to prevent less scrupulous sources from filling the void and strengthening these illegal markets.

The letter also acknowledged the exemption of Ukraine and Israel from the pause, recognizing the crucial need for firearms for civilian self-defense in these countries. The senators cited Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement about encouraging civilians to arm themselves for self-defense in response to Hamas attacks. They also mentioned Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's announcement that the government would provide weapons to anyone who wants to defend the country in response to the Russian invasion.

The senators called for a response from Secretary Raimondo by November 30, 2023, to address their concerns and provide clarity on the decision to pause firearms exports.

The pause on firearms export licenses has raised significant questions and concerns among Republican senators. They are seeking answers to the justifications for the pause and its potential impact on U.S. commercial interests and national security. The senators are also wary of the unintended consequences of the pause, such as the strengthening of illicit arms markets.

The Biden administration's decision has sparked a bipartisan call for transparency and accountability. The senators are determined to ensure that the pause is thoroughly reviewed and its implications are fully understood.

The response from Secretary Raimondo will be crucial in addressing these concerns and providing the necessary information to assess the decision's impact on the firearms industry and U.S. national security.

The full letter can be read [here](link).

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-budd-republican-colleagues-demand-answers-over-biden-administrations-unprecedented-pause-of-firearms-export-licenses/