National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (1 Nov 2022): Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.
What this bill does
H.R. 6281, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021, would amend the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to change how firearm background checks are conducted and how related records are handled. It would require the FBI's NICS system to search additional law-enforcement databases—including the National Data Exchange, the Interstate Identification Index, National Crime Information Center databases, and the NICS Index—when checking whether a prospective gun buyer is legally barred from possessing a firearm. It would also require the system to retain records tied to a background check for as long as needed to complete the determination, and to notify the person in writing if no decision has been made within 30 days, including informing them of their ability to submit corrective or clarifying information.
The bill primarily affects federal firearm-purchase background check procedures, the FBI/Justice Department agencies operating NICS, and individuals undergoing background checks when buying firearms from licensed dealers.
The bill was introduced on December 14, 2021, by Rep. Jimmy Panetta and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. According to available records, it did not receive a vote and saw no further action before the end of the 117th Congress.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021
This bill modifies procedures for conducting firearms-related background checks through the national instant criminal background check system (NICS).
Specifically, the bill requires the NICS to retain records related to a firearms-related background check for as long as necessary to determine whether an individual is eligible to receive a firearm.
Additionally, the bill requires the NICS to query additional databases for relevant information, including the National Data Exchange, the Interstate Identification Index System, and the National Crime Information Center databases.
Timeline
1 Nov 2022
Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 6281 do?
- H.R. 6281, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Data Integrity Act of 2021, would amend the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to change how firearm background checks are conducted and how related records are handled. It would require the FBI's NICS system to search additional law-enforcement databases—including the National Data Exchange, the Interstate Identification Index, National Crime Information Center databases, and the NICS Index—when checking whether a prospective gun buyer is legally barred from possessing a firearm. It would also require the system to retain records tied to a background check for as long as needed to complete the determination, and to notify the person in writing if no decision has been made within 30 days, including informing them of their ability to submit corrective or clarifying information. The bill primarily affects federal firearm-purchase background check procedures, the FBI/Justice Department agencies operating NICS, and individuals undergoing background checks when buying firearms from licensed dealers. The bill was introduced on December 14, 2021, by Rep. Jimmy Panetta and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. According to available records, it did not receive a vote and saw no further action before the end of the 117th Congress.
- Has H.R. 6281 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 6281. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 6281?
- H.R. 6281 was sponsored by Rep. Panetta, Jimmy [D-CA-20] (D-CA), with 4 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 6281?
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security. (1 Nov 2022).
Related bills in Crime and Law Enforcement
Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act
National Coordination Center and Commercial Cyber Capabilities Codification Act
Supporting the goals and ideals of "National Nonviolence Week" to raise awareness of youth violence in the United States.
Anthony Amoros Law Right to Know Act
More bills from Rep. Panetta, Jimmy [D-CA-20]
Mali Security Partnership and Counterterrorism Act
Farmers Lifeline to Overcoming Disasters (FLOOD) Act
Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026
BRIDGE Africa Act
Bill100 mirrors the public U.S. legislative record from Congress.gov and GovTrack and adds plain-English AI summaries. It is an information tool, not legal, compliance or lobbying advice, and it is not affiliated with the U.S. Congress or any government agency. AI summaries can simplify or omit detail — every bill links to the official source; verify there before you rely on it.