Government Shutdown 2025: What New York Gun Owners Must Know About Firearms, NICS, Ammo and FFLs
New York, NY – October 2025: The federal government shutdown is making headlines across the country, and it has real consequences for New Yorkers who buy firearms, ammunition, or depend on local gun stores. From background checks to ammo imports, the shutdown reaches deeper into everyday life than many expect. Here’s what gun owners, license applicants, and firearms businesses in New York need to know.
Background Checks in New York: NYS-NICS Relies on FBI NICS
Since 2023, all firearm and ammunition sales in New York require background checks through the NYS-NICS system. But NYS-NICS is not truly independent. It relies on the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to function.
What this means:
- As long as FBI NICS remains staffed during the shutdown, New Yorkers can still complete background checks for firearms and ammunition.
- If FBI NICS goes offline, NYS-NICS cannot process transactions. Gun stores and ammunition sales would grind to a halt statewide.
This is critical for every New Yorker considering a purchase. The system may look like it’s state-run, but its lifeline runs through Washington.
Imported Ammunition and Firearms: Supply Chain Warning
New York already struggles with high prices and shortages on certain calibers and imported firearms. The shutdown could make it worse.
- ATF Imports Branch is closed. No new permits for imported ammunition or firearms are being processed.
- DDTC and BIS—the federal agencies handling defense and commercial export licensing—are suspended as “non-essential.”
Impact for New Yorkers: If you rely on imported 9mm, 7.62×39, or specialty hunting rounds, you may see slower resupply. The same goes for imported rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Stock that’s already in the country can still be sold, but resupply will be delayed until ATF and State Department licensing offices reopen.
FFL Renewals at Risk: Local Gun Stores Could Be Forced to Pause
Every New York gun shop operates on a Federal Firearms License (FFL). That license must be renewed on schedule through the ATF. With ATF’s licensing center closed, renewals are not being processed.
If your favorite local gun store’s FFL expires during the shutdown, they could be forced to temporarily stop all firearms transactions until federal staff return. This risk grows every day the shutdown continues.
For gun owners, that means fewer available transfer points, delays in online order pickups, and interruptions in legal private transfers that must go through an FFL under New York law.
NFA Approvals: Already Off the Table Under the NY SAFE Act
During the shutdown, the ATF’s NFA Division is not processing new forms for suppressors, SBRs, or machine guns. But here in New York, the SAFE Act already bans suppressors and short-barreled rifles for civilians, regardless of federal approval.
- If you live in New York, these delays will not affect you—because state law already prohibits ownership of these NFA items.
- NFA delays matter more for FFLs, out-of-state customers, or law enforcement contracts than for the average New York gun owner.
What New York Gun Owners Can Still Do During the Shutdown
Despite the uncertainty in Washington, many firearms activities continue in New York:
- Purchase firearms from dealers whose FFLs remain active.
- Buy ammunition through the NYS background check system (which depends on FBI NICS uptime).
- Complete required training, including the NY 18-hour concealed carry class, which is unaffected by federal staffing.
- Submit paperwork now to “get in line” for processing when federal offices reopen.
Key takeaway: Everyday gun owners can still buy and train, but ammo imports, FFL renewals, and NFA items face real disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will background checks in New York stop during the shutdown?
No, not immediately. The FBI’s NICS system remains open, and NYS-NICS runs on top of it. If FBI NICS shuts down, New York’s system will stop working.
Can I still buy ammunition in New York?
Yes, as long as FBI NICS remains staffed. But imported ammunition may become harder to find because ATF is not approving new import permits.
What happens if my local gun store’s FFL expires during the shutdown?
If their renewal is not processed, they may be forced to stop all firearm sales and transfers until the ATF licensing office reopens.
Do shutdown delays affect NFA items like suppressors or SBRs?
Nationally, yes. But in New York, the SAFE Act already bans suppressors and SBRs for civilians. Shutdown delays only impact FFLs and out-of-state applicants.
Should I continue with my NY CCW permit training?
Absolutely. State licensing and training requirements are unaffected. Completing your NY CCW training now ensures you’re ready once your county permit office reviews applications.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 government shutdown highlights just how dependent New York’s firearms system is on federal infrastructure. From NYS-NICS leaning on FBI NICS, to imported ammo approvals, to FFL renewals, the effects ripple all the way down to your local gun shop.
At NY Safe, we’re committed to keeping New Yorkers informed and prepared. Firearms and ammunition sales continue for now, but supply chain disruptions and licensing delays are real risks. Stay proactive, stay trained, and stay informed.
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