Kansas Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which federal law is responsible for governing background checks on firearm purchases nationally?

1. The National Firearms Act of 1934

2. The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act

3. The Federal Assault Weapons Ban

4. The Gun Control Act of 1968

The correct answer is: The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act

The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act is the federal law primarily responsible for governing background checks on firearm purchases across the United States. Enacted in 1993, this law instituted the requirement for federal background checks for individuals purchasing firearms from licensed dealers. It established the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which helps to quickly determine whether a prospective buyer is eligible to purchase a firearm based on relevant state and federal laws. This background check system is vital for enforcing legal restrictions against individuals who may pose a threat to themselves or others, such as felons or individuals with restraining orders. The act stems from a desire to enhance public safety and prevent gun violence by making it more challenging for ineligible persons to acquire firearms through legitimate sales channels. While other options like the National Firearms Act, the Federal Assault Weapons Ban, and the Gun Control Act of 1968 play critical roles in the regulation of firearms, they do not specifically focus on the background check process for purchases in the way that the Brady Act does.