Security law hits rocketry hobbyists

Model-rocket hobbyists must be licensed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives before buying motors that are now considered explosives under a homeland security law.

The regulation was proposed in March and went into effect this week over the objection of some Capitol Hill lawmakers.

Federal officials say the new regulations apply only to a small segment of rocket enthusiasts — those who use motors containing more than 62.5 grams of explosive propellant.

Bruce Kelly, spokesman for the Tripoli Rocketry Association, called that outlook “disingenuous.”

“One hundred percent of large motor users are affected, and manufacturers, dealers and distributors will see a domino affect,” Mr. Kelly said. “It’s extremely excessive.”

The Safe Explosives Act, part of the Homeland Security Act passed by Congress last year, set the regulations in motion and requires anyone purchasing or receiving explosives to have a license. It also affects farmers, construction companies, land managers and those putting on fireworks displays.

The new permit requires applicants to undergo a background check, be fingerprinted and photographed, and it authorizes warrantless searches of storage areas. The license must be posted and available for inspection.

The purpose of the legislation is to provide tighter security for explosive materials and those who purchase it.

However, some members of Congress say the actual regulations are too restrictive and are not what they had intended.

They asked the ATF to delay implementing the new rules regarding rockets but received no response, a Senate aide said.

Bradley Buckles, ATF director, was asked to delay implementation in a letter signed by Republican Sens. Michael B. Enzi of Wyoming, Conrad Burns of Montana, Michael D. Crapo of Idaho, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma, and Norm Coleman of Minnesota.

“Using rocket motors to send their rockets skyward, hobby rocketeers enjoy a safe hobby and foster an interest in space exploration and science in participating youth,” the senators wrote. “The implementation of permit requirements will make it difficult for this hobby to continue.”

A spokesman for ATF said it could not delay the implementation date of May 24 because it was established by Congress in the legislation.

“We can’t extend the law without a new law,” said spokesman Tom Hill.

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