A New FFL

SCOPE has written about the difference between the Biden and Trump administrations in regards to FFL’s and the ATF bureaucracy.  In response to SCOPE’s recent email on the newly nominated ATF Director, Robert Cekada, we received the following email.

I began my journey to become a licensed firearms dealer in New York in early 2024. It took over a year to receive the federal firearms license (FFL) alone. I mailed my FFL application May 30th 2024 and finally received it on June 2nd 2025. After 13 months, I had my 07 FFL. Another 3 months later, I had my New York dealer and gunsmithing licenses

Initially my application was on hold due to "possible" ties to a previous FFL. Rather than looking at my completely unblemished record (including no traffic violations) they made assumptions and the DOJ had everything on hold.

Fast forward to Donald J Trump. President Trump’s administration created new policies within the ATF which were designed to help protect the 2nd Amendment: in regards to licensed FFLs; and to gun owners in general. It was not easier to get a Federal Firearms License but he insured that dealers would not be penalized for clerical errors (a policy put in place by the previous administration). He decreased the size of the ATF and let them know there were not only in place to enforce firearms laws but to help legal, law-abiding FFLs. Current policy is that the ATF is to help FFLs whenever possible and give them the benefit of doubt rather than go to immediate revocation of their license.  Had Donald Trump not been in office I firmly believe I would not have received my FFL.

 Throughout the time I waited, I spoke to various agents of the ATF, numerous times.  My dealings with the ATF have been pleasant and all of the agents have helped me to the best of their ability. I know firsthand how an administration can "alter" the policies within a federal organization (whether they are legal or not.)  I see how easily the policies can be manipulated by whoever the current administration is - including those at the state level.

President Trump and Director Cekada have my full support and I am indebted to both of them for changing the internal policies of the ATF. Hopefully they have set a precedent that will remain in place for generations to come.

David B Freemanowner
Green Dragon Guns, LLC
38 Main St
Akron, NY 14001