Stop Arming Cartels Act of 2025

This legislation aims to restrict the availability of powerful firearms and enhance measures against firearms trafficking, particularly concerning foreign narcotics organizations. A central provision makes it unlawful to import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess any rifle capable of firing .50 caliber ammunition. Exceptions are provided for government entities and for rifles lawfully possessed before the bill's enactment. For existing .50 caliber rifles, the bill mandates their inclusion under the National Firearms Act , requiring owners to register these firearms within 12 months of the Act's effective date without a fee. This measure aims to bring previously owned .50 caliber rifles under stricter federal oversight. Additionally, the legislation expands the scope of individuals prohibited from acquiring firearms to include significant foreign narcotics traffickers , as identified under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act, and integrates this prohibition into the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The bill also modifies the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), removing liability protections for manufacturers or sellers who knowingly sell or transfer firearms to individuals or entities prohibited under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act. This change allows for legal action against those who intentionally arm such traffickers. Finally, the legislation updates federal reporting requirements for multiple firearm sales, extending them to include rifles alongside pistols and revolvers, thereby increasing transparency in firearm transactions.