VA Reverses Policy, Restores Due Process for Veterans’ Gun Rights

On February 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced a major policy change: the VA will no longer report veterans to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) solely because they have been assigned a fiduciary to assist with managing their finances.

Even more significantly, the VA confirmed it is working with the FBI to remove the names of veterans who were previously reported to NICS under this policy. This action reverses a controversial practice that many argued stripped veterans of their Second Amendment rights without judicial due process.

What Changed

Under the previous policy, veterans who were assigned a fiduciary—someone appointed to help manage financial affairs—were automatically reported to NICS. That reporting effectively prohibited them from purchasing or possessing firearms, even though no court had determined they were a danger to themselves or others.

Critics long maintained that this amounted to a loss of constitutional rights without a judicial finding. The February 17, 2026, policy change ends the automatic reporting practice and restores a due process standard requiring judicial authority before firearm rights can be restricted.

Legislative Efforts to Make It Permanent

While this administrative action is a significant step forward, there is ongoing effort in Congress to codify the reform. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act (H.R. 1041 / S. 478)—backed by lawmakers including Mike Bost (R. Ill.), Jerry Moran (R. KS), and John Kennedy (R. LA)—aims to permanently prevent similar reporting policies in the future.

Most recently, the legislation advanced out of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs with an amendment designed to retroactively restore the rights of veterans previously affected. Supporters argue that codifying the change is essential to ensure that future administrations cannot reinstate similar policies.

Why This Matters

Veterans answered the call to defend the Constitution. Many believe it is only fair that their constitutional rights are not restricted without proper judicial process. This policy change reinforces a core principle: constitutional rights should not be removed through administrative action alone.

At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we strongly support our veterans and the freedoms they defended. We believe no service member should lose their Second Amendment rights simply for seeking financial assistance.

Supporting Those Who Served

As a small way to say thank you, 2 If By Sea Tactical proudly offers 10% off in-store purchases for veterans. It’s a simple gesture, but one that reflects our appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who wore the uniform. We are committed to standing with veterans—not only in honoring their service but in supporting their constitutional rights.

The February 17, 2026, policy change is an important victory for due process and fairness. But as with many Second Amendment issues, lasting protection requires vigilance. We will continue monitoring legislative efforts to ensure these protections become permanent.

At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we are more than just a firearm store and indoor range here in Southern Minnesota, we remain dedicated to defending the Second Amendment and supporting the men and women who defended our nation. To our veterans: thank you.  We cannot express our gratitude for what you have done and allowing us to exercise the freedoms we enjoy.

Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world.  As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.