Justice Department moves to close "gun show loophole"

The Justice Department announced Thursday it has started a process to expand the definition of a firearm dealer and make it clear that sellers at gun shows and flea markets and who sell through the mail are required to obtain specific approvals and run background checks before selling guns. 

The Justice Department announced the submission of a proposed federal rule that will still have to undergo a public comment submission period as a part of the approval process. It's a move the administration is making to close the so-called "gun show loophole," and ensure that gun sales entail background checks. If approved, the proposed rule would affect how guns are sold under federal law, and expand background check requirements to cover more sellers. 

Last year, Congress passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which directed the Justice Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to look at federal rule definitions for firearms. This process is the result.