Tester Demands Answers and Transparency from Biden Administration on Great Falls Gun Store Investigation

In letter to IRS and ATF, Senator seeks answers regarding the recent search of Highwood Creek Outfitters

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today sent a letter to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) pressing for answers on the recent investigation of Great Falls gun store Highwood Creek Outfitters.

In Tester’s letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel and ATF Director Steven Dettelbach, he emphasized that more transparency around the incident is needed to ensure a Montana small business is treated fairly.

“Earlier this month, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), executed a search warrant at the Highwood Creek Outfitters gun shop in Great Falls, Montana. I am reaching out regarding concerns that Montanans have shared with me that deserve answers,” wrote Tester. “Federal law enforcement agencies should aim to be as transparent as possible, while respecting the rights of those under investigation.”

Tester called on the agencies to provide additional information about the recent search, asking officials, “What actions are your agencies taking to ensure that they are provided necessary information about this case and to improve communication moving forward?” Additionally, Tester noted that Montanans have raised concerns about records that were taken during the search that may contain personal information. He asked the IRS and ATF, “What actions are your agencies taking to ensure that these documents are properly handled and that the privacy and Second Amendment rights of these individuals are protected?”

As a proud gun-owner and strong supporter of the Second Amendment, Tester has repeatedly opposed banning assault weapons and will always protect the rights of law-abiding Montana gun owners.

You can read Tester’s full letter HERE.