Why it Matters
Beretta USA Corp. is making a strategic pivot after staying out of lobbying for six years. The firearms manufacturer has enlisted Checkmate Government Relations LLC to focus on Second Amendment rights and trade issues. This marks a significant shift from its previous defense-focused lobbying through American Defense International Inc. from 2003-2019.
By the Numbers
Historical spending: Beretta spent $1.36 million over 16 years on defense-focused lobbying.
New lobbying team: Three lobbyists from Checkmate Government Relations:
- Frederick Watson Vaughan: Former Senior Counsel for House Financial Services Committee
- Christopher Joseph LaCivita Jr.: Diverse portfolio including defense and technology clients
- Charles Franklin McDowell IV: Veteran lobbyist with regulatory expertise
Firm experience: Checkmate represents other firearms clients including GLOCK Inc., Springfield Armory Inc., and Taurus Holdings Inc..
Broader Context
Congress is considering extensive firearms legislation this session. Bills range from the restrictive S.1531 – Assault Weapons Ban of 2025 to protective measures like the S.1652 – Protecting Communities and Preserving the Second Amendment Act of 2025. Recent congressional hearings have focused on ATF oversight and Second Amendment protections.
The Agenda
Beretta is lobbying on “issues related to trade and the rights guaranteed by the Second Amendment.” The company hasn’t specified particular legislation. However, bills like the S.89 – Sporting Firearms Access Act of 2025 could benefit Beretta’s import operations.
Competitive Landscape
Beretta enters a crowded lobbying field. The National Shooting Sports Foundation and Gun Owners of America spend millions advocating for industry interests. Gun control groups like Giffords: Courage to Fight Gun Violence lobby for stricter regulations.
Between The Lines
Thirty Republican Senators led by Sen. Bill Cassidy urged ATF to rescind Biden-era regulations. Sen. Mike Lee and Rep. Mark Green led 86 colleagues calling for Commerce Department rule reversals on firearm exports. Recent hearings on The Right to Self Defense and Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations featured sharp partisan exchanges over ATF’s role.
The Bottom Line
Beretta’s lobbying return signals the company wants a voice in broader firearms policy debates. The move from defense procurement to constitutional rights and trade reflects the industry’s evolving Washington strategy.
All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!
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