President Barack Obama and the Department of State issued a statement in the Federal Register expressing an interest in modifying the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) in order to prevent the distribution of files containing designs for 3D printable firearms.
The changes include redefining several terms, including "technical data" and "export." In essence, it would make the distribution of 3D printed gun plans just as illegal as exporting a complete gun. The matter is now open for public comment on the Department of State website, and will be until Aug. 3.
US Government Proposes ITAR Amendments to Choke off Distribution of 3D Printable Gun Models
Early last month we covered a story which could ultimately have major implications for those living here in the US. These changes, we believe, would not only hurt Wilson’s future aspirations to distribute files online for both new and old 3D printable gun designs, but would likely choke off any other individual or group’s ability to share most gun-related design files online without fear of legal repercussions.
Filed Under: Industry regulations