Reports indicate that actor Mel Gibson, a notable supporter of former President Donald Trump, could see his gun rights restored by the current administration. This development comes as part of a broader initiative aimed at reforming gun laws at the federal level.

Background on Gibson’s Loss of Gun Rights

In 2011, Gibson entered a plea of no contest to charges of misdemeanor spousal battery concerning his former girlfriend, Oksana Grigorieva. As a result, he was sentenced to three years of probation, mandatory counseling for domestic violence, and was required to complete community service for two days. The conviction stemmed from an incident in January 2010, although Grigorieva did not bring the allegations to the authorities until later, as both were engaged in a custody dispute over their child at the time.

While a court vacated his misdemeanor conviction in 2014, federal regulations continue to restrict firearm access for individuals who have been subject to restraining orders related to domestic violence incidents.

Current Developments Regarding Gun Rights

According to The New York Times, the Trump administration is moving forward with plans to reinstate gun rights for Gibson among others, as part of a list of ten individuals. Attorney General Pam Bondi reportedly approved this decision, indicating a potential shift in the federal approach to gun rights restoration for those with previous convictions.

Even if federal restrictions are lifted, Gibson may still face challenges at the state level where laws could impede his ability to legally own a firearm.

Connection to Trump and Political Context

Insight into the political ramifications of this move reveals that Gibson’s association with Trump has been a source of contention. Elizabeth G. Oyer, a former pardon attorney for the Justice Department, voiced concerns regarding her dismissal after she declined to recommend the restoration of Gibson’s gun rights due to this relationship. Reports suggest that officials within the department had pressured her to support the restoration, reflecting the intersection of celebrity, politics, and legal classifications.

Trump has publicly acknowledged Gibson’s stature, appointing him as one of three special envoys for Hollywood alongside actors Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone. On social media, he expressed aspirations to revitalize the film industry in the United States, signaling a proactive approach to leveraging relationships with influential figures in entertainment.