Mission Areas

ATF recognizes the role that firearms play in violent crimes and pursues an integrated regulatory and enforcement strategy.

ATF plays a vital role in regulating and educating the explosives industry and in protecting the public from inadequate storage and security of explosives.

ATF is the federal agency primarily responsible for administering and enforcing the criminal and regulatory provisions of the federal laws pertaining to destructive devices (bombs), explosives, and arson.

ATF's goal is to target, identify, and dismantle criminals with ties to violent crime, that traffic illicit liquor or contraband tobacco in interstate commerce; deny their access to assets and funds; and prevent their access into the legitimate alcohol or tobacco industry.