This bill, titled the "Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act," seeks to guarantee that certain federal government operations concerning firearms continue uninterrupted during a lapse in appropriations. It achieves this by classifying these specific operations, functions, and services as relating to an emergency involving the safety of human life or the protection of property , thereby deeming their employees as excepted employees . The critical functions covered include the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) of the FBI, which processes background checks, and the Directorate of Enforcement Programs and Services of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Additionally, it ensures the continuation of activities by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) related to firearms and firearm-related products, specifically including the processing of export license applications , during a government shutdown.