Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act of 2025

This legislation aims to guarantee the uninterrupted operation of specific federal government functions concerning firearms during a lapse in appropriations. It achieves this by deeming these operations as relating to an emergency involving the safety of human life or the protection of property, thereby classifying their employees as excepted employees under federal law.

Key operations covered include the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) of the FBI, ensuring background checks can still be processed for firearm transactions. It also mandates the continuation of services provided by the Directorate of Enforcement Programs and Services of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Furthermore, the bill ensures that firearm and firearm-related product activities, including the processing of export licenses, continue for both the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the Department of Commerce and the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) of the Department of State.