The Justice Department this week opened a public rights restoration website for Attorney General restoration of firearm purchase, possession, and carry rights, filling 5,000 first-phase applications immediately and adding 500 on January 4 to test payments before later larger intake. More than 300,000 first-year applications are expected, with a gradual start after more than three decades of no functioning federal process, using existing funds and seeking extra staff money. Applicants still need a background investigation and Attorney General findings they are unlikely to endanger public safety and that restoration is in the public interest.