GOSAFE Act - Summary & Key Points
1. Focuses on the Most Dangerous, Rapid-Fire Weapons
The GOSAFE Act restricts a specific category of semi-automatic firearms called gas-operated firearms, which are the types most often used in mass shootings because they can fire quickly and accept high-capacity magazines.
2. Stops the Sale of New Assault-Style Weapons
The bill ends the future import, sale, and manufacture of these high-powered, rapid-fire firearms for civilians.
People who already own them legally may keep them, but new sales would stop.
3. Bans New High-Capacity Magazines
The bill prohibits the sale and manufacture of new magazines that hold more than 10 rounds for most firearms, or more than 15 rounds for handguns.
Existing magazines can be kept, but they cannot be resold or transferred.
4. Blocks Devices That Make Guns Fire Faster
The Act bans any device or modification that increases how fast a gun fires or makes it function like a machinegun.
This includes bump-stock-style devices and parts that speed up trigger action.
5. Provides Clear Exceptions
The law allows firearm use and possession for:
• Law enforcement
• Military
• Certain security contractors
• Immediate family transfers of firearms already owned before the law
Common sporting firearms like bolt-action rifles, pump shotguns, revolvers, and .22 caliber rimfire rifles are not affected.
6. Creates an Official List of Prohibited Firearms
The ATF must publish and update a clear public list of the specific firearms that are restricted under this law, so everyone knows exactly what is covered.
7. Supports Voluntary Buyback Programs
The bill allows states to use existing federal funds to run voluntary buyback programs for these firearms and high-capacity magazines.
8. Holds Manufacturers Accountable
Any new semi-automatic firearm design must be reviewed by ATF to ensure it cannot be easily modified into a prohibited weapon.