The Second Amendment remains a hot topic in 2025, with gun rights and regulations sparking debate across the nation. From court decisions challenging long-standing firearm restrictions to new legislation shaping the future of concealed carry, this year has already seen significant developments that impact gun owners. As laws evolve and legal battles unfold, it’s more important than ever for responsible firearm owners to stay informed. This year’s “Guns in the News” roundup will highlight the most notable stories affecting your rights, safety and responsibilities. Whether you’re concerned about new laws, legal victories or proposed regulations, we’ve got you covered with the latest updates from around the country.
December
U.S. Mass Killings Database Shows 2025 at Two‑Decade Low
Data from the “mass killings” database that the Associated Press and USA Today keep, along with Northeastern University, indicate the number of mass killings in the U.S. in 2025 has fallen to its lowest level since tracking began in 2006, with roughly 17 incidents reported so far this year. Criminologists caution this likely reflects a return to longer‑term averages rather than a sustained reduction in overall gun violence, however.
The Guardian
Florida Advances Bill to Lower Firearm Purchase Age
Florida’s House Judiciary Committee voted 13–7 to advance legislation that would lower the minimum age to purchase firearms, including rifles and shotguns, from 21 to 18, undoing part of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Act restrictions. The bill now moves to the full House, though its final prospects remain unclear. It would not affect federal age requirements for licensed dealer sales of handguns.
WUSF, Florida
Study Links Caribbean Gun Trafficking to U.S. Hubs
A Geneva‑based Small Arms Survey study found that the majority of traceable firearms seized in six Caribbean nations originated in Florida and Georgia, with Miami‑Dade and Broward counties identified as significant sources and Tampa, Miami and Atlanta ports registering most illegal export detections. Researchers emphasized the need for enhanced enforcement at U.S. ports and more comprehensive data to address this transnational crime issue.
Reuters
North Carolina Allows Private School Employees to Carry
North Carolina’s latest legislative session saw a suite of new laws take effect, one that allows employees and volunteers at non-public schools to carry weapons on school property if authorized by school officials. HB 193, Firearms Law Revisions, would also allow a person to carry a concealed handgun on property shared by a school and a place of worship during religious services or functions.
Carolina Journal, North Carolina
Assault Weapons Ban Survives Latest Court Challenge
A judge again upheld Washington’s 2023 law banning the sale of certain semi-automatic firearms classified as assault weapons. The dispute is likely not over. The gun rights advocacy group suing to overturn the ban says it will appeal. Whether restrictions like Washington’s are constitutional may eventually be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Washington State Standard, Washington
Gun Rights Groups Praise New DOJ Second Amendment Division
Gun rights organizations welcomed the Department of Justice’s announcement of a dedicated Second Amendment section in its Civil Rights Division. Plans for the new division identified “investigating local laws or policies limiting gun rights” as its chief mission.
The Reload
Federal Grant Funds Second Amendment History Curriculum Development
The Department of Education has awarded a new multi-year grant to the University of Wyoming’s Firearms Research Center (FRC) to create a class on Second Amendment history. The nearly $1 million dollar grant will last two years and fund the development of a course on the Second Amendment’s “origins, legal interpretation, and civic implications.”
The Reload
Gun Control Groups Support DOJ
Gun control advocates have filed briefs supporting the Department of Justice in litigation concerning the regulation of silencers and short-barreled rifles under the National Firearms Act, arguing for continued strict enforcement of federal controls.
The Reload
Supreme Court Declines to Hear Assault Weapons Ban Appeal
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up an appeal of a lower court decision upholding an assault weapons ban, leaving in place existing precedent and signaling potential limits on the Court’s willingness to revisit certain gun control cases this term.
KTBS
Minnesota Governor Signs Gun‑Related Executive Orders
After lawmakers failed to pass an assault weapons ban, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed a series of gun‑related executive orders aimed at addressing gun violence, including measures on safe storage, background checks and enforcement strategies.
Minnesota Reformer, Minnesota
November
Oregon Supreme Court Hears Arguments on Measure 114
The Oregon Ballot Measure 114 challenge has reached the Oregon Supreme Court, which on Nov. 6 heard arguments over the voter-approved law that includes requirements for firearm safety training, permits to purchase, background checks and a ban on magazines holding more than 10 rounds.
Statesman Journal, Oregon
Maine Voters Approve ‘Red Flag’ Law Ballot Measure
Voters in Maine approved Ballot Question 2 by roughly 62 percent to 38 percent, expanding state law to allow family or household members, in addition to law enforcement, to petition a court for temporary removal of firearms from someone deemed a danger. The measure adds a typical “extreme-risk protection order” pathway alongside Maine’s existing “yellow-flag” statute.
The Reload, Maine
Petition Calls for Overturning of Connecticut’s Gun Ban
Several gun rights groups filed a petition asking the Supreme Court to review Connecticut’s ban on so-called “assault weapons” (including AR-15 rifles). Plaintiffs argue the banned firearms are commonly used for lawful purposes and thus protected, pointing to the “mechanically and functionally identical” nature of the covered semi-automatic rifles.
Inside Investigator, Connecticut
St. Paul Passes Assault Weapon Ban
The St. Paul City Council unanimously approved an ordinance banning assault-style weapons, large-capacity magazines and binary triggers. However, because Minnesota law pre-empts local firearm regulation, gun-rights groups have filed suit contending the city lacks authority under the state preemption statute.
KSTP, Minnesota
Federal Judge Upholds Delaware Permit-to-Purchase Law
In Delaware, U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika declined to issue a preliminary injunction against the state’s new permit-to-purchase law for handguns, thereby allowing enforcement of the law to proceed. The law requires prospective handgun purchasers who lack a carry permit to first obtain a state-issued permit, including training, fingerprinting and a background check.
The Reload, Delaware
SAF Urges Supreme Court to Hear Assault Weapons Ban Lawsuit
The Second Amendment Foundation and others filed a reply brief with the Supreme Court in Viramontes v. Cook County, challenging a ban on so-called “assault weapon.” The petition argues the Seventh Circuit mis-applied Second Amendment precedent and urges the Court to settle the constitutional question of “AR-15” style bans once and for all. The case is scheduled for the December 5 conference.
The Outdoor Wire
Bill to Allow 18-Year-Olds to Buy Guns Advances in Florida
In Florida, the House subcommittee advanced House Bill 133, which would lower the minimum age to purchase a firearm from 21 to 18. The current law dates to 2018 following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. Supporters argue the law is inconsistent because 18-20-year-olds may legally own long guns via transfer but cannot purchase them. The bill next heads to the House Judiciary Committee, and its fate in the Senate remains uncertain.
News4JAX, Florida
October
DOJ Considering Gun Control
Following a Catholic school shooting in Minneapolis, the U.S. Department of Justice is looking to strip transgender persons of their Second Amendment right by classifying them as “mentally defective. This would disqualify them from firearm possession under federal law.
Cleveland.com
Supreme Court Hears Gun Cases
The Supreme Court of the United States agreed to review a federal law that prohibits “unlawful users of or addicts to any controlled substance” from owning firearms, after the Fifth Circuit held it unconstitutional in part. The case centers on a Texas man who admitted to regular marijuana use and possessed a firearm.
PBS NewsHour
California Bans Handgun Sales
The California Assembly Bill 1127, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, will prohibit the sale of new semi‑automatic handguns that can be converted into automatic weapons, starting July ,1 2026. The statute specifically targets pistols deemed easily convertible via devices like “Glock switches. While the bill doesn’t mention a manufacturer by name, it effectively bans new sales of certain popular models unless redesigned and recertified.
Scot Scoop, California
Gun Violence Archive Reports 340 Mass Shootings in 2025 So Far
The U.S. has recorded 340 mass shootings in 2025 through mid-October, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive, which defines such events as shootings with four or more victims excluding the perpetrator. While no major federal legislation has passed since the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has called for broader gun control measures, including bans on “assault weapons” and universal background checks.
Fox
Sales of NFA-Regulated Firearms Resume Amid Federal Shutdown
The Trump administration declared firearms examiners at the ATF “essential” employees, allowing the sale of silencers, short-barreled rifles and pre-1986 machine guns to resume during the ongoing federal shutdown. The move came after lobbying from gun-rights groups and members of Congress, who argued the furloughs violated the Second Amendment by halting lawful NFA transactions.
The Guardian
Firearms-Retail Slowdown & Industry Bankruptcy Wave
Retail-point-of-sale data show that new-firearm unit sales dropped sharply in the third quarter of 2025, described by one analyst as the steepest quarterly decline in over a year across firearms, ammunition and suppressors. Several companies have filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings since 2020, including Remington, NRA, Watchtower Firearms LLC and Central Florida Firearms LLC.
The Street & SGB Media
Misuse of Gun-Owner Data
A class-action complaint filed in Connecticut accuses the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) of secretly gathering millions of gun-buyers’ personal data (including names, addresses, income and lifestyle information) via manufacturer warranty cards and other sources, then using the data for political-messaging campaigns without consent. The suit contends NSSF’s actions constitute “unjust enrichment” and seeks damages plus class-action status for affected purchasers.
Associated Press
Florida Lawmakers Push to Lower Firearm-Purchase Age from 21 to 18
In Florida, Republican legislators have revived a proposal (House Bill 759) to reduce the minimum age for firearm purchases from 21 to 18, arguing that adults who can serve in the military should have the same rights to acquire firearms. The change would reverse part of the 2018 law enacted after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, which raised the age to 21 following that mass-shooting event.
The Bradenton Times, Florida
Pennsylvania House Advances Gun-Safety Bills
The Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee approved five gun-safety bills in a 14-12 party-line vote, shortly after a lethal shooting of law-enforcement officers in York County. The measures include universal background checks for all firearm purchases, a ban on so-called “ghost guns” and conversion accessories, and the creation of Extreme Risk Protection Orders (commonly called red-flag laws).
Patriot News, Pennsylvania
Gun Export Restrictions Lifted
On September 29, 2025, the Commerce Department announced the rollback of export rules imposed in April 2024 that restricted U.S. civilian-firearm exports to 36 countries/regions deemed high-risk for misuse. The move restores export policy and is projected to open “hundreds of millions of dollars” in export opportunities for major U.S. firearms manufacturers. Export licensing and screening remain in place but with fewer restrictions.
Reuters
Second Circuit Upholds New York’s Ammo Background Check System
A unanimous Second Circuit panel upheld New York’s requirement that buyers pass a point-of-sale background check for ammunition, affirming the denial of a preliminary injunction. The court concluded the mandate imposes only a “modest condition” on commercial sales and does not implicate the Second Amendment’s plain text at step one of Bruen.
The Reload, New York
Third Circuit Hears Challenge to New Jersey’s Assault-Weapons Ban
The Third Circuit heard arguments on whether New Jersey’s ban on AR-15-style rifles violates the Second Amendment, after a district judge previously found the rifle ban unconstitutional but upheld the state’s magazine limit. Several judges questioned the state’s historical justifications under Bruen, and a ruling could create a circuit split.
Reuters, New Jersey
U.S. Virgin Islands Senate Delays Assault Rifle Bill
Following weeks of public pushback, the Senate pulled Bill 36-0144, which would prohibit assault rifles and ban suppressors, from a committee agenda to allow amendments. Lawmakers said the measure will return to committee with substantial changes before further testimony.
The Virgin Islands Consortium, U.S. Virgin Islands
Supreme Court Declines Missouri Appeal
The Supreme Court denied Missouri’s petition to review the Eighth Circuit ruling that struck down the Second Amendment Preservation Act, which sought to invalidate and impede enforcement of certain federal gun laws. The denial leaves the decision in place, though Missouri may seek narrower relief on non-enforcement provisions in the lower court.
The Reload, Missouri
Post-Office Gun Ban Unconstitutional
The Northern District of Texas granted summary judgment for plaintiffs, including the Second Amendment Foundation, declaring 18 U.S.C. § 930(a) and 39 C.F.R. § 232.1(1) unconstitutional as applied to carrying firearms inside an ordinary post office or on postal property. The ruling came in a suit filed in 2024 challenging the nationwide ban at postal facilities.
Buckeye Firearms Association, Texas
Supreme Court Takes Case on Hawaiʻi’s Default Gun Ban
The Court agreed to review Hawaiʻi’s law that prohibits carrying on private property, including businesses, unless the owner affirmatively permits it, a rule the Ninth Circuit largely allowed to take effect. The case will test whether such a default prohibition aligns with the historical-tradition standard under Bruen.
Hawaiʻi Public Radio, Hawaiʻi
September
Delaware Superior Court Strikes Down Under‑21 Firearm Purchase Restrictions
A judge in Kent County Superior Court ruled that House Bill 451, which raises the minimum age in Delaware to purchase, possess or control most firearms from 18 to 21, is unconstitutional under the Delaware Constitution.
The court held that the age requirement infringed the right of 18‑ to 20‑year‑olds to self‑defense guaranteed by Article I, Section 20 of the state constitution, and therefore struck down the age provisions.
AP, Delaware
7th Circuit Upholds Illinois Ban of Concealed Carry on Public Transit
The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Illinois’ law that bans the carrying of concealed firearms on public transit systems (specifically CTA and Metra), finding that this restriction does not violate the Second Amendment.
The court reversed a lower court ruling which had found the law unconstitutional under recent Supreme Court precedents (requiring greater scrutiny or historical tradition), and held that the state may regulate firearms in certain public and sensitive locations, including public transit.
Chicago Sun Times, Illinois
California Legislature Approves “Glock Ban” Bill
California lawmakers passed a bill that would prohibit the sale of most new semi-automatic pistols that do not meet the state’s microstamping requirement, effectively banning many Glock models. The bill aims to close a legal loophole that temporarily allowed certain older-model handguns to remain on the state’s roster despite not complying with microstamping technology.
The Reload, California
Tennessee Lawmakers Challenge Ruling Expanding Gun Carry Rights
Democratic and Republican legislators in Tennessee joined to oppose a recent court decision that struck down part of the state’s gun carry law. The ruling, if upheld, could prevent enforcement of laws that restrict carrying firearms with criminal intent, prompting bipartisan concern over public safety.
NewsChannel 5, Tennessee
Lawsuit Filed Against Colorado Restrictions on Firearm Modifications
A federal lawsuit has been filed challenging Colorado’s new law. SB25-003 bans the purchase of semi-automatic firearms without a state permit and prohibits rapid-fire conversion devices. Plaintiffs argue the law violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendments by criminalizing common ownership and modification of firearms.
KDVR, Colorado
Federal Judge Upholds Massachusetts Handgun Roster Law
A federal judge ruled that Massachusetts’ handgun roster and safety testing requirements do not violate the Second Amendment. The court found the regulation falls within the state’s power to ensure firearm safety and withstands constitutional scrutiny under historical standards.
The Reload, Massachusetts
Tenth Circuit Upholds Federal Machine Gun Ban
The Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court decision and upheld the federal ban on civilian possession of machine guns. The court ruled the ban is consistent with historical firearm regulation and does not infringe on Second Amendment rights.
The Reload
Justice Department Signals Support for Illinois Assault Weapons Ban
The head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division publicly defended Illinois’ assault weapons ban during a visit to Chicago, amid ongoing legal challenges. The statement comes as the law, signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, faces scrutiny over whether it conflicts with recent Supreme Court precedents.
Chicago Sun-Times, Illinois
Third Circuit Blocks Parts of New Jersey Gun Carry Law
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit issued a partial injunction against New Jersey’s 2022 gun control law, suspending provisions that ban carry in libraries, public gatherings and certain vehicles. The court allowed other location restrictions to remain in effect while legal challenges continue.
The Reload, New Jersey
Minnesota Lawmakers Convene Working Group After Church Shooting
A bipartisan working group in the Minnesota Senate met for the first time to explore potential firearm legislation following a church shooting in Minneapolis. The panel is tasked with evaluating existing laws and proposing policy changes during the next legislative session.
KARE 11, Minnesota
Florida Attorney General Declares Open Carry Ban Unenforceable
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier stated that the state’s longstanding ban on open carry of firearms is no longer enforceable under recent legal precedents. The announcement comes as part of broader efforts to align Florida law with constitutional interpretations of the right to bear arms.
WPTV, Florida
U.S. Virgin Islands Bill Sparks Debate on Gun Rights and Public Safety
A proposed bill in the U.S. Virgin Islands would increase penalties for firearm offenses and create a new permit system for gun possession. The measure has prompted debate between public officials emphasizing safety and advocates warning of constitutional overreach.
St. Thomas Source, U.S. Virgin Islands
August
New York Governor Demands National Ban on Rifles
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) is calling for a nationwide ban on modern sporting rifles (MSRs), aligning with precedents set by past gun control architects. Her demand adds to ongoing pressure at the federal level to restrict these weapons.
NSSF
One Big Beautiful Bill Act Opens Door to Ending Some Gun Controls
The recently enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” eliminated transfer taxes on suppressors and short‑barreled firearms, effectively nullifying historical prohibitive measures under the National Firearms Act. Gun rights organizations have filed suit to invalidate federal weapons registration requirements. The litigation asserts that without the transfer tax, regulatory justification collapses.
Washington Examiner, Reason
Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Permit System
A U.S. judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by gun advocacy groups contesting the constitutionality of the Rhode Island’s firearms permit system following the Bruen decision. The decision maintains that the permit regime complies with legal standards, effectively preserving current permit requirements.
The Providence Journal, Rhode Island
Illinois Governor Signs Two New Gun Control Bills Into Law
Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) signed two gun-related bills into law aimed at closing loopholes and increasing penalties for unlawful firearm possession. One law increases criminal penalties for individuals without a valid FOID card caught possessing firearms, while the second requires the Illinois State Police to publish data on firearms used in crimes and tracks the origins of illegally used guns.
NBC, Illinois
Measure to Allow Guns in Religious Schools Advances
North Carolina lawmakers are moving forward with legislation that would permit concealed carry in churches that operate private schools, reversing previous bans on firearms in those settings. The measure has passed the state House and awaits Senate consideration, with supporters citing the need for self-defense in faith-based institutions.
The News & Observer, North Carolina
Minnesota Supreme Court: Homemade Guns Need Not Bear Serial Numbers
The Minnesota Supreme Court held that the state’s serial number law applies only to firearms that federal law requires to be serialized. As such, homemade guns not subject to federal serialization requirements do not violate state law. The court reversed the lower court’s decision and remanded for further proceedings.
The Reload, Minnesota
6th Circuit: Second Amendment Does Not Protect Machine Guns
An appeals panel upheld a man’s conviction for possessing an unregistered machine gun, ruling that machine guns fall outside the Second Amendment’s protection. The court emphasized that historically “dangerous and unusual” weapons like machine guns have been subject to regulation and are not typically used by law‑abiding citizens.
Courthouse News Service
Florida Officials Urge Upholding State’s Open‑Carry Ban
A St. Lucie County sheriff and state attorney filed a motion urging a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit challenging Florida’s ban on open carry, arguing the Second Amendment does not guarantee open carrying so long as concealed carry remains available. They also questioned the plaintiffs’ standing in the case.
Tampa Free Press, Florida
9th Circuit Revives Challenge to Los Angeles’s Old Gun‑Carry Regime
A 9th Circuit panel revived a Second Amendment lawsuit brought by two men arrested for carrying firearms without permits in Los Angeles under the city’s former “no‑issue” policy. The court ruled the plaintiffs need not prove they applied for a permit and allowed their claims to proceed.
The Reload, California
Federal Appeals Court Blocks New Mexico’s Gun‑Sale Waiting Period
A 10th Circuit panel issued a preliminary injunction against New Mexico’s seven‑day waiting period for firearm purchases, concluding the law likely violates the Second Amendment. The court held that the historical record does not support imposing blanket delays on law‑abiding citizens seeking to acquire firearms.
The Reload, New Mexico
D.C. U.S. Attorney Will Not Seek Felony Charges for Rifles or Shotguns
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C. announced it will no longer prosecute individuals for carrying rifles or shotguns unless those weapons are tied to violent crimes or the person is prohibited from possessing firearms. This shift aligns with Supreme Court precedent affirming public carry for self‑defense, though local illicit possession laws remain enforceable by D.C. authorities.
AP News, D.C.
Federal Appeals Court Upholds Connecticut Assault Weapons Ban
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Connecticut’s assault weapons ban on August 22, 2025, ruling that the law does not violate the Second Amendment. The decision stems from a challenge to post-Sandy Hook restrictions that prohibit AR-15–style rifles and high-capacity magazines.
AP News, Connecticut
July
LA Concealed Carry Permit Delay Lawsuit
A federal judge denied Los Angeles County’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit alleging unconstitutional delays in issuing concealed carry permits. The plaintiffs argue that the LA Sheriff’s Department imposes excessive wait times and administrative barriers that violate the Second Amendment. The case will now proceed to discovery and potential trial.
The Reload, California
DOJ Drops Appeal in Pistol Brace Ban Case
The Department of Justice has withdrawn its appeal in Mock v. Garland, a case challenging the ATF’s rule reclassifying pistols with stabilizing braces as short-barreled rifles. The Fifth Circuit had previously blocked enforcement of the rule against plaintiffs, and the DOJ’s decision ends its effort to reverse that ruling.
California Ammo Background Checks Found Unconstitutional
A federal judge struck down California’s ammunition background check system, ruling it violates the Second Amendment and unduly burdens law-abiding gun owners. The court found the system prone to wrongful denials and inconsistent enforcement, failing to align with historical firearms regulations.
California Non-Resident Carry Ban Ruled Unconstitutional
A U.S. District Court ruled that California’s prohibition on issuing concealed carry permits to non-residents violates the Second Amendment. The court held that the state’s residency requirement unlawfully prevents lawful gun owners from exercising their right to carry while in the state.
Texas Bans Red Flag Laws
Texas enacted legislation prohibiting the enforcement of red flag laws, joining a growing number of states taking similar action. The new law bars state agencies and employees from enforcing federal or state court orders that allow firearm confiscation without due process.
DOJ Won’t Appeal Handgun Ban Ruling for Adults Under 21
The Department of Justice has chosen not to appeal a court decision striking down the federal law that barred handgun sales by licensed dealers to adults aged 18 to 20. The decision leaves in place the ruling that found the restriction unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.
Congress Eliminates Taxes on Silencers, Sawed-Off Shotguns
Congress passed legislation removing the $200 transfer tax on suppressors and short-barreled shotguns. The measure amends the National Firearms Act and aims to reduce burdens on legal ownership of certain NFA-regulated items.
Ninth Circuit Expands Ruling Against California Gun Ad Ban
The Ninth Circuit broadened its earlier decision blocking California’s ban on firearm-related advertisements aimed at minors. The updated ruling now protects a broader range of promotional content, with the court reaffirming that the law violates the First Amendment rights of firearms-related businesses.
June
SCOTUS Declines AR-15, Magazine Ban Cases While Kavanaugh Promises Action Soon
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear two major Second Amendment challenges — Snope v. Brown and Ocean State Tactical v. Rhode Island — allowing Maryland’s AR-15 sales ban and Rhode Island’s magazine capacity limits to stand. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, while concurring with the denial, indicated that the Court should and likely will address the AR-15 issue in the near future. Justices Thomas, Alito and Gorsuch dissented, expressing concern over the lower courts’ interpretations.
The Reload
Supreme Court Unanimously Tosses Mexico’s Suit Against Smith & Wesson
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously dismissed Mexico’s $10 billion lawsuit against American gun manufacturers, ruling that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) shields the companies from liability for crimes committed with their products. Justice Elena Kagan wrote that Mexico failed to plausibly allege that the gunmakers aided or abetted illegal firearms trafficking.
The Reload
Maryland Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Gun Possession in Some Non-Felony Cases
The Maryland Supreme Court upheld a state law banning firearm possession by individuals sentenced to two or more years in prison, regardless of whether the offense was a felony. The court likened the restriction to traditional felon-in-possession laws, deeming it consistent with Second Amendment jurisprudence.
WTOP, Maryland
Federal Judge Blocks Colorado’s New Gun Law
A federal judge in Colorado issued a preliminary injunction against a recently enacted state law that raised the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21. The judge ruled that the law likely infringes upon the Second Amendment rights of young adults.
FOX 10 Phoenix, Colorado
Gov. Lombardo Vetoes Bill That Would Prohibit Guns at Polling Places
Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo vetoed Assembly Bill 105, which sought to ban firearms at polling places. Lombardo stated that existing laws already protect against voter intimidation and that the bill would create redundant “gun-free zones” without clear justification.
KTNV, Nevada
Second Circuit Upholds Gun Ban for All Felons, Including Non-Violent Offenders
The Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the federal prohibition on firearm possession by felons applies universally, including to those with non-violent convictions. The court emphasized historical precedent for disarming certain classes of individuals based on status alone.
The Reload, National
North Carolina Governor Vetoes Permitless Concealed Carry Bill
Gov. Josh Stein vetoed legislation that would have allowed adults aged 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without a permit in North Carolina. Stein argued that the bill would undermine public safety by eliminating training and eligibility requirements.
AP News, North Carolina
Pennsylvania Reverses Course, Agrees to Honor Virginia Concealed Carry Permits
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday reinstated a concealed carry reciprocity agreement with Virginia, allowing permit holders from both states to carry firearms across state lines. The move reverses a 2018 decision that had terminated the agreement over background check discrepancies.
The Reload, Pennsylvania
Louisiana Bill Would Eliminate Gun-Free Buffer Zone Around Schools
Louisiana’s Senate Bill 101, pending the governor’s signature, aims to remove the 1,000-foot gun-free buffer zone around schools. The bill would allow individuals 18 and older to carry firearms up to a school’s property line, aligning with the state’s constitutional carry laws.
FOX 8 Live, Louisiana
Senate Moves to Delist Silencers, Short-Barrel Shotguns and Rifles from NFA in Budget Bill
The Senate Finance Committee’s draft budget reconciliation bill includes provisions to remove silencers, short-barrel rifles and shotguns from the National Firearms Act (NFA). The changes would eliminate the $200 federal tax and registration requirements for these items.
The Reload
Wyoming State Officials Approve Emergency Concealed Carry Rule Changes
Wyoming state officials approved emergency rules allowing for temporary concealed carry permits to be issued more quickly during declared emergencies. The changes aim to expedite the permitting process in situations where immediate self-defense needs may arise.
Wyoming News Now, Wyoming
Texas Again Lowers Restrictions on Firearms
Texas enacted new legislation further reducing restrictions on firearm possession and carry. The changes include expanded rights for permitless carry and reduced penalties for certain firearms-related offenses, continuing the state’s trend toward more permissive gun laws.
El Paso Times, Texas
DOJ Says AR-15s, Ammo Magazines Protected by Second Amendment in Seventh Circuit Brief
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a brief with the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals asserting that AR-15 rifles and standard-capacity magazines are protected under the Second Amendment. The DOJ urged the court to strike down Illinois’ ban on these firearms and accessories.
The Reload
Rhode Island Lawmakers Pass Bill to Ban Sales of Assault Weapons
Rhode Island’s state House passed legislation banning the sale and manufacture of many semi-automatic rifles commonly referred to as assault weapons. Gov. Dan McKee has indicated he will sign the bill into law, aligning the state with others that have enacted similar bans.
AP News, Rhode Island
Gov. Stein Takes Action on Four Bills
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein took action on four bills, including vetoing legislation related to permitless concealed carry and immigration enforcement. Stein cited concerns over public safety and constitutional issues in his veto messages.
AP News, North Carolina
May
State Investigates Jacksonville’s Alleged Gun Registry
The city of Jacksonville is under criminal investigation by the state attorney’s office for allegedly maintaining an illegal gun registry. At least nine current and former officials have been subpoenaed. The practice involved logging the names of individuals who entered city buildings while carrying concealed firearms, and may be the first case of its kind under Florida’s 21-year-old gun registry ban.
WOKV, Florida
Missouri Bill Would Allow Firearms on Public Transit
The Missouri House advanced a bill that would permit legally carried firearms on public transit systems. The proposal also lowers the concealed carry permit age from 19 to 18.
Mass Transit, Missouri
Alabama Governor Signs Gun Violence Bill Into Law
Gov. Kay Ivey (R) signed SB 119 into law, increasing penalties for gun-related crimes and expanding Aniah’s Law to include additional offenses. Most provisions will take effect in October.
FOX10 News, Alabama
North Carolina Considers Lifetime Concealed Carry Permits
A bill passed by the North Carolina House would create a lifetime concealed carry permit. It would maintain existing background check and training requirements and apply only within the state.
Carolina Journal, North Carolina
Democrats Reintroduce Federal Assault Weapons Ban
Senate Democrats, led by Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT), reintroduced legislation to ban the purchase and possession of semi-automatic firearms. The bill faces long odds in the Republican-controlled Congress.
The Hill, Washington D.C.
Tennessee Expands Liability Protections for Firearms Manufacturers
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed SB 1360 into law, prohibiting liability lawsuits against gun companies without a viable claim of direct harm. The law also penalizes attempts to enforce out-of-state judgments that conflict with Tennessee law. It will take effect July 1, 2025.
The Reload, Tennessee
Washington Supreme Court Upholds Magazine Capacity Ban
The Washington State Supreme Court upheld the state’s ban on the sale of ammunition magazines holding more than 10 rounds in a 7-2 ruling. The court found the law does not violate the state or U.S. Constitution, reversing a lower court decision that had struck down the ban.
Washington State Standard, Washington
Federal Appeals Court Upholds Gun Ban for Nonviolent Felons
The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a federal law barring nonviolent felons from possessing firearms in an en banc ruling. The court found the ban consistent with historical firearms regulations and not in violation of the Second Amendment.
The Reload
New Hampshire Senate Passes Liability Shield for Gunmakers
The New Hampshire Senate passed an amendment to a House bill that would prevent liability lawsuits against gun manufacturers based on the absence or presence of optional firearms features. The measure does not apply to existing lawsuits or claims involving manufacturing defects. It now returns to the House for consideration.
Union Leader, New Hampshire
Oklahoma Concealed Carry Bill for Local Officials Sent to Governor
The Oklahoma Legislature passed House Bill 1095, which would allow city councils to authorize certain municipal officials to carry concealed firearms. The bill, known as the Municipal Carry Act, now awaits the signature of Gov. Kevin Stitt (R).
KSWO, Oklahoma
U.S. House Passes Bipartisan Bill Expanding Cop Carry Rights
The U.S. House passed HR 2243, a bipartisan bill that expands where off-duty and retired law enforcement officers can carry firearms under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act. The bill clarifies carry rights in places such as school zones, federal parks and certain federal facilities. It now moves to the Senate.
The Reload
Oregon Legislature Advances Gun Control Bill
The Oregon Senate is considering SB 243, which would ban rapid-fire firearm devices such as bump stocks and allow local governments to prohibit concealed carry in government buildings used for official meetings. The proposal includes a 72-hour waiting period.
The Register-Guard, Oregon
Oklahoma Expands ‘Defensive Display’ Law to Businesses
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) signed House Bill 2818, which allows people to legally point a firearm in defense of their home, private property or business. The law expands the definition of “defensive display” to include verbal warnings, visible display of a weapon or placing a hand on a weapon, and took effect immediately.
The Oklahoman, Oklahoma
NRA Appeals Florida Gun Law to U.S. Supreme Court
The National Rifle Association filed a petition asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review Florida’s law raising the minimum age to purchase rifles and long guns from 18 to 21. The NRA argues the restriction violates the Second Amendment and cites conflicting rulings among federal appeals courts as grounds for review.
CBS News Miami, Florida
Trump Administration Reverses Biden-Era Ban on Forced Reset Triggers
The Trump administration reached a legal settlement allowing the sale and possession of forced reset triggers, reversing a Biden-era policy that classified them as machine guns. The agreement ends ongoing litigation and requires the return of previously seized devices, provided they are not designed for use with handguns.
Reuters
Washington Governor Signs New Gun Purchase Permit Bill
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson (D) signed a law requiring individuals to obtain a permit from the Washington State Patrol before purchasing a firearm. The law includes a live-fire training requirement, enhanced background checks and takes effect May 1, 2027, unless funding is not provided by June 30, 2025.
KHQ, Washington
Nevada Bill Restricts Semi-Automatic Gun Sales to Under-21s
Nevada lawmakers approved a bill that would prohibit the sale or transfer of semi-automatic shotguns and rifles to individuals under 21, sending it to Gov. Joe Lombardo’s (R) desk for consideration. The legislation makes exceptions for military members and law enforcement and would take effect in 2026 if signed into law.
MyNews4, Nevada
House Republicans Add Silencer Deregulation Measure to Budget Bill
House Republicans included language in a newly passed budget bill that would remove firearms suppressors from regulation under the National Firearms Act. The amendment would eliminate registration and the $200 transfer tax on suppressors, making them subject only to a standard FBI background check. The provision passed the House 215-214 and now heads to the Senate, where it faces scrutiny under reconciliation rules.
The Reload
Texas House Passes Bill to Legalize Short-Barrel Firearms
The Texas House approved SB 1596, which would decriminalize short-barrel firearms under state law and remove them from the state’s list of illegal weapons. These firearms, already legal under federal law with restrictions, are defined as rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches or shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches. The bill, previously passed by the Senate, now heads to Gov. Greg Abbott’s (R) desk for consideration.
FOX 4 News, Texas
April
New York Governor Signs More Gun Control Bills
Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) signed three new gun control bills into law that expand the definition of “imitation weapons,” mandate state agencies to share gun crime data and require regular reporting on gun violence metrics. One law allows state health officials to access confidential gun-crime records, while another broadens what constitutes an “imitation weapon” to include toy or replica guns. The measures build on previous legislative efforts following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen ruling.
WIVB, New York
Nebraska Supreme Court Weighs Local Gun Restrictions
The state’s high court is considering whether Lincoln’s local firearms ordinances conflict with Nebraska’s firearms preemption laws. At issue is whether Lincoln’s bans on firearms possession in certain city buildings and public parks overstep state authority. The case could determine the balance of power between municipal regulation and statewide carry protections.
KOLN, Nebraska
Massachusetts Gun Bans Upheld in Federal Court
The 1st Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Massachusetts’ bans on “assault weapons” and standard-capacity magazines, deepening legal conflict over the scope of the Second Amendment post-Bruen. The court found that the bans were consistent with “longstanding” firearms regulations, despite the Supreme Court’s more recent originalist framework. The case could now be appealed to the high court.
The Reload, Massachusetts
Supreme Court Declines Challenge to New York Gun Law
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a case challenging New York’s Concealed Carry Improvement Act, leaving lower court decisions intact. The law enforces “good moral character” reviews and restricts carry in designated “sensitive locations,” including parks, theaters and places of worship. The justices gave no comment, letting stand a contentious framework that remains the subject of ongoing litigation.
Alabama Promotes Voluntary Gun Storage for Veterans
Gov. Kay Ivey (R) signed legislation encouraging voluntary firearms storage as a tool for suicide prevention among veterans. The measure establishes a public education campaign and promotes the use of safes and locking devices through local partnerships. It aims to reduce impulsive self-harm while preserving access for responsible gun owners.
WBRC, Alabama
Rhode Island Lawmakers Oppose Local Assault Weapons Ban
State lawmakers in Rhode Island opposed the Glocester Town Council’s endorsement of an assault weapons ban, arguing that such policies target lawful gun owners instead of criminals. During a State House hearing, legislators criticized what they viewed as emotional appeals rather than fact-based arguments. The proposed bill remains under committee review.
NRI NOW, Rhode Island
Hawaii Gun Owners Push Back on Surprise Legislation
Gun owners in Hawaii say they were blindsided by a surprise introduction of an assault weapons ban, criticizing the bill’s rushed rollout and lack of transparency. The proposed measure would outlaw commonly owned semi-automatic rifles and magazines over 10 rounds. Testimony revealed that many residents felt deliberately excluded from the legislative process.
North Carolina Advances Pro-Gun Bills
The North Carolina House advanced two bills: one expanding concealed carry in more locations, and another easing permit renewal. One measure would allow concealed carry at school-based voting sites, while the second would extend permit validity to 10 years. Both now move to the House floor for a full vote.
NC Newsline, North Carolina
Colorado Passes Semi-Auto Permit Scheme
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) signed legislation requiring a permit and mandatory training for semi-automatic firearms purchases, prompting criticism from gun rights groups who see it as backdoor registration. The law, which goes into effect in 2026, requires fingerprints, background checks and a safety course. It will apply to all new buyers of semi-automatic rifles and pistols.
The Reload, Colorado
Washington Senate Approves Permit and Training Bill
Washington’s Senate passed a bill mandating permits and training — including live-fire exercises — for firearms purchases. The proposed law, HB 1902, also mandates a 10-day waiting period and annual permit renewal. The bill is expected to be signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson (D).
KOMO News, Washington
Georgia High Court Hears Under-21 Carry Case
The Georgia Supreme Court heard arguments about whether 18- to 20-year-olds can be denied the right to carry. The case stems from a lawsuit challenging a 1976 law that restricts handgun carry to those 21 and older. The justices must now determine whether age-based restrictions are compatible with constitutional protections.
Capitol Beat, Georgia
Montana Formally Prohibits Red Flag Laws
Montana became the latest state to ban red flag laws, with Gov. Greg Gianforte (R) signing legislation that defends due process and protects against preemptive gun seizures. The bill prohibits any court order authorizing firearms confiscation based on perceived mental health risks. Lawmakers emphasized individual liberty and legal safeguards in its passage.
The Reload, Montana
Iowa Lowers Handgun Age Limit to 18
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) signed a bill lowering the legal age to possess a handgun to 18. The law aligns with federal minimum purchase ages for long guns and reflects changes made to state constitutional carry laws in 2021. Supporters argue it restores rights to young adults legally recognized in other areas of life.
The Des Moines Register, Iowa
Supreme Court Declines Minnesota Carry Case
The Supreme Court rejected an appeal challenging Minnesota’s law prohibiting 18- to 20-year-olds from carrying firearms, leaving a split among circuit courts unresolved. The state law requires handgun carry permit applicants to be 21 or older, despite federal purchase laws permitting ownership at 18. The Court’s decision not to intervene leaves differing regional standards in place.
March
Wyoming Removes Gun-Free Zones
Gov. Mark Gordon has allowed a bill repealing gun-free zones in Wyoming to become law without his signature. While he supports Second Amendment rights, Gordon criticized the bill as a legislative overreach into executive authority. The new law removes restrictions on firearms in public spaces like schools and government buildings.
WyoFile, Wyoming
Washington Approves Permit-to-Purchase Gun Bill
The Washington State House has passed a controversial bill requiring a permit to purchase firearms. The bill is part of a broader gun control package making its way through the legislature. Republican lawmakers proposed 27 amendments, all but one of which were rejected. The state patrol says it will cost $13.7 million in the next state budget to handle the new program. The amount rises to nearly $20 million in the 2027-29 budget. Fees collected for fingerprinting and background checks would offset the cost of the new permit-to-purchase program. Washington’s bill now heads to the state Senate.
Washington State Standard, Washington
Permitless Carry Bill Advances in North Carolina Senate
A bill allowing North Carolina residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit has advanced to the full Senate. The proposal would eliminate the need for concealed carry permits for those legally allowed to own firearms.
The News & Observer, North Carolina
Oregon Appeals Court Upholds Gun Permit and Magazine Ban
An Oregon appeals court has ruled that the state’s voter-approved gun permit requirement and magazine capacity ban are constitutional, reversing a lower court decision. The law, one of the toughest in the nation, requires people to undergo a criminal background check and complete a gun safety training course in order to obtain a permit to buy a firearm. It also bans high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds. Gun rights advocates plan to appeal, arguing the law infringes on lawful gun ownership. Measure 114 has been tied up in state and federal court since it was narrowly approved by voters in November 2022. The ruling keeps the law in place for now.
Winchester Star, Oregon
Colorado Senate Tweaks Existing Gun Control Law
Colorado lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 3, which makes technical changes to the state’s 2021 gun control legislation. The bill adjusts provisions around gun purchases and background checks but does not significantly alter current restrictions. Supporters say it improves enforcement, while critics remain concerned about existing regulations.
Colorado Sun, Colorado
Short-Barreled Rifles Not Protected by Second Amendment
A federal appeals court has ruled that short-barreled rifles are not protected under the Second Amendment, allowing existing federal regulations to stand. The court argued such weapons fall outside traditional civilian use.
Massachusetts High Court Splits on Non-Resident Gun Carry Cases
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court issued split rulings in two cases involving non-residents carrying firearms in the state. One decision upheld the state’s licensing law, while the other recognized certain limitations of enforcement. The mixed outcomes leave legal questions unresolved for out-of-state gun owners.
The Reload, Massachusetts
Alabama Bans ‘Glock Switch’ Devices
Gov. Kay Ivey has signed legislation banning “Glock switches,” illegal devices that convert semi-automatic handguns into fully automatic weapons. The new law imposes stiff penalties for possession or use. Lawmakers say the measure is aimed at curbing gun crime involving modified firearms.
AL.com, Alabama
Virginia Gun Control Legislation Decisions
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has vetoed several gun-related bills passed by the state’s Democratic-controlled General Assembly, including proposals for expanded background checks and bans on certain semi-automatic firearms.
AP, Virginia
Concealed Carry Allowed in Bars and Colleges
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden has signed legislation allowing concealed handguns in bars and on public college campuses. The measures mark a significant expansion of where permit holders can legally carry in the state. Another bill prevents local governments from adopting any policy that restricts the concealed carry of firearms by their employees, officers and volunteers. It applies to government buildings, facilities and vehicles.
South Dakota Searchlight, South Dakota
Colorado Semi-Automatic Firearm Ban Bill Advances
A bill to ban the sale and transfer of many semi-automatic firearms in Colorado has passed a key committee vote and moves closer to becoming law. Senate Bill 25-003 would not affect guns that Coloradans already own but would add restrictions for new purchases of certain gas-powered semi-automatic guns that accept detachable magazines. Buyers would first need to complete a training course and get approval from their county sheriff.
Denver 7, Colorado
Supreme Court Upholds ‘Ghost Gun’ Kit Ban
The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the ATF rule that reclassifies unfinished gun part kits, including “ghost gun” kits, under the same regulations as fully functional firearms. This decision allows the ATF to enforce requirements for makers and dealers of unfinished firearm parts, including licensing, serialization and background checks for buyers. Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the majority, argued that the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) grants the ATF the authority to regulate such kits, which can be easily assembled into working firearms. Despite the ruling being a setback for gun-rights advocates, it leaves room for future challenges. Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissented, arguing that the GCA only applies to completed firearms and not to unfinished parts or kits.
February
North Carolina Moves Toward Becoming 30th Constitutional Carry State
Republican lawmakers in North Carolina have introduced bills to allow permitless concealed carry, making it the latest state to consider constitutional carry legislation. If passed, the law would allow lawful gun owners to carry concealed without a government-issued permit. House Bill 5 would also allow elected officials to carry in legislative building and offices in Raleigh.
Breitbart, North Carolina
Sweeping Semi-Automatic Firearm Restrictions Proposed in New Legislation
Lawmakers in Colorado are pushing for significant new restrictions on semi-automatic firearms, including expanded bans on so-called “assault weapons” and high-capacity magazines. The proposed legislation, which included requiring a criminal background check and safety course before purchasing a gun, is expected to face strong legal and political challenges despite already passing the state’s senate.
The Wilton Bulletin, Colorado
Maine Seeks to Reinstate 3-Day Gun Purchase Waiting Period
Maine’s Attorney General is appealing a court decision that temporarily blocked the state’s new three-day waiting period on firearm purchases. The pause followed a lawsuit arguing the law violates constitutional rights and burdens lawful gun owners. The case could set a precedent for other states considering similar waiting period laws.
Maine Morning Star, Maine
Trump Signs Executive Order on Second Amendment Rights
President Donald Trump has issued an executive order reaffirming protections for gun owners and limiting federal overreach on firearms regulations. The order addresses concerns over recent ATF rulings and seeks to roll back restrictions on firearm accessories. While gun rights groups praise the move, gun control advocates warn it could weaken enforcement efforts.
New York Lawmakers Consider Nine New Gun Control Measures
State legislators in New York are considering a sweeping package of gun control bills, including expanded background checks for 3D printers, storage mandates, a 30-day waiting period and new licensing requirements. Each of the nine bills currently sit in committee, however Senate and Assembly leaders have signaled they intend to take up some of, if not all of the bills in the coming legislative session.
North Country Now, New York
Massachusetts Gun Law Faces Federal Court Challenge
Massachusetts’ strict firearm laws are being challenged in federal court, with plaintiffs arguing a state law that prohibits adults from age 18 to 20 from acquiring, possessing or carrying semi-automatic firearms and handguns violate the Second Amendment. The lawsuit also targets restrictions on magazine capacity and other gun control measures. The case could have major implications for gun owners in Massachusetts and beyond, depending on the court’s ruling.
Western Mass News, Massachusetts
Federal Judge Rules Machine Gun Charges Violate Second Amendment
A federal judge has dismissed machine gun-related charges against a Mississippi man, ruling that the federal prohibition on converting firearms violates the Second Amendment. The ruling does not invalidate the law wholesale, impacting only charges against Justin Bryce Brown for owning an unregistered machinegun. However, if other federal judges agree, the decision could pave the way for future courts to throw out the federal machinegun ban altogether. The decision follows recent court rulings that question the historical basis for modern firearm regulations.
The Reload, Mississippi
Bill Allowing Concealed Carry on Public Campuses Advances in South Dakota
A South Dakota bill that would allow concealed carry on public college campuses has advanced in the legislature. The proposal also corrects the right to carry stun guns and chemical sprays. Passing 33 to two, the bill now moves to the next legislative stage for further debate.
South Dakota Public Broadcasting, South Dakota
Rhode Island Governor Rallies Support for Assault Weapons Ban
Gov. Dan McKee is pushing for an assault weapons ban in Rhode Island, urging lawmakers to “finally get this done.” The proposed ban would prohibit the purchase, sale, manufacture and possession of assault-style weapons, including semi-automatic shotguns, rifles and pistols. The only exceptions to the ban, according to McKee, would be for law enforcement and military personnel. McKee also said Rhode Islanders who currently own assault-style weapons can keep theirs so long as they are registered with their local police departments within a year of the ban taking effect. The bill’s fate remains uncertain in the state legislature.
WPRI, Rhode Island
Illinois Judge Strikes Down Gun Purchase Permit Requirement
An Illinois judge has ruled the state’s gun purchase permit requirement is unconstitutional, eliminating a barrier for lawful gun buyers. The decision is a victory for gun rights advocates, though state officials are expected to appeal. If upheld, the ruling could impact similar regulations across the country.
The Reload, Illinois
Federal Judge Upholds Hawaii’s Under-21 Gun Ban
A federal judge has upheld Hawaii’s law banning gun purchases for individuals under 21, ruling it aligns with historical firearm restrictions. Gun rights advocates had challenged the law, arguing it unfairly restricts young adults’ Second Amendment rights. The ruling is expected to be appealed, potentially setting up a larger court battle.
The Reload, Hawaii
Senators Introduce Bill to Raise Age for ‘Assault Weapon’ Purchases
A group of 19 U.S. senators has introduced legislation to raise the minimum age for purchasing so-called “assault weapons” to 21. The move comes amid continued calls for stricter gun control following high-profile shootings. The bill faces stiff opposition from Second Amendment advocates and is likely to face challenges in Congress.
Colorado Senate Democrats Move to Ban Firearms in Government Buildings
Democrats in the Colorado Senate have introduced a bill to prohibit firearms in state government buildings, citing safety concerns. Opponents argue the measure infringes on lawful carry rights and leaves citizens defenseless in public spaces. The bill is expected to pass given Democratic control of the legislature.
Colorado Politics, Colorado
New Mexico Senator Pushes Semiautomatic Rifle Ban Despite Strong Opposition
After experiencing gun violence firsthand in a city that has become the poster child of lawlessness in New Mexico, Sen. Debbie O’Malley is among a handful of Democrats championing what will likely be one of the most contentious pieces of legislation of the State Senate’s 60-day session: A bill that would ban the sale or transfer of semi-automatic rifles. Senate Bill 279, known as the Gas-Operated Semiautomatic Firearms Exclusion Act, or GOSAFE, also would prohibit the manufacture and sale of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. The legislation is modeled after a bill U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich is co-sponsoring at the federal level.
Santa Fe New Mexican, New Mexico
January
Senator Cornyn Proposes Bill for Nationwide Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has introduced a bill to establish nationwide concealed carry reciprocity, allowing permit holders to legally carry across state lines. Proponents argue it simplifies legal travel for gun owners, while critics worry it undermines state-specific firearm regulations. President Trump voiced support for the law while on the campaign trail.
Colorado Lawmakers Consider Ban on Detachable Magazines
A proposed bill in Colorado would ban the sale, purchase and manufacture of semi-automatic firearms with detachable magazines. Senate Bill 3 would affect many pistols and rifles, whose manufacturers don’t appear to make versions of the weapons without removable magazines. It would also outlaw rapid-fire trigger activators and bump stocks.
Colorado Sun, Colorado
Attorneys General Plan to Defend Gun Regulations
More than a dozen Democratic state attorneys general have said they plan to defend two gun regulations now being challenged in court, including one banning devices that enable semi-automatic guns to fire more quickly. One case involves devices known as forced reset triggers, or FRTs, which can be installed on weapons, functionally turning them into machine guns, according to Platkin. The other centers on a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives regulation that came out of a 2022 law.
Supreme Court Declines Multiple Second Amendment Cases
The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected several Second Amendment-related cases while keeping gun ban challenges under review. Advocates on both sides of the gun rights debate await the Court’s next steps, which could clarify or reshape firearm regulations nationwide.
Appeals Court Overturns Pennsylvania Emergency Gun Carry Ban
A Pennsylvania emergency gun carry ban has been blocked by an appeals court following a Supreme Court remand. Pennsylvania had attempted to ban the open carry of firearms for 18- to 20-year-olds during declared emergencies. The court ruled the ban violated constitutional rights, with Second Amendment groups celebrating the decision as a victory for lawful gun owners.
The Reload, Pennsylvania
Illinois Supreme Court Hears Arguments Against Concealed Carry Law
The Illinois Supreme Court has heard arguments challenging the state’s concealed carry law, with opponents claiming it violates constitutional rights. Under Illinois’ aggravated unlawful use of a weapon statute, individuals are not allowed to carry a firearm in public unless the person has a valid Concealed Carry License. The case could have significant implications for gun owners and firearm regulations within the state.
NPR, Illinois
Attorney General Nominee Pam Bondi Signals Openness to Gun Control Talks
During her confirmation hearings, Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi expressed a willingness to collaborate with Democrats on gun control measures. When asked about gun laws such as “red flags,” Bondi said she would defend the laws of the United States. Bondi’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from gun rights advocates, who fear potential compromises on Second Amendment issues.
White House Gun Violence Prevention Website Goes Offline
The White House’s official Gun Violence Prevention website has unexpectedly gone offline, sparking speculation about the administration’s stance on firearms policy. Critics have called for transparency, while supporters argue it may signal a strategic shift in approach.
Lawsuit Defends Truckers’ Right to Carry Firearms Across State Lines
The Liberty Justice Center has filed a lawsuit challenging laws that restrict truck drivers from carrying firearms while traveling across state borders. The case argues these laws violate the Second Amendment and interstate commerce protections, with implications for lawful gun owners nationwide.
Wyoming Adopts New Rules Allowing Firearms in State Capitol
Wyoming officials have unanimously approved new rules permitting firearms in the state Capitol, provided carriers meet specific requirements. Firearms are currently prohibited in the state Capitol, but Gov. Mark Gordon promised, after vetoing a 2024 bill that would have lifted all gun-free zones statewide, to consider lifting gun-free zones in state-owned buildings operated through the executive branch.
Wyoming Tribune Eagle, Wyoming
Fifth Circuit Reaffirms Gun Rights for Marijuana Users
The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled in favor of gun rights for marijuana users, declaring that federal prohibitions barring cannabis users from owning firearms are unconstitutional. This decision builds on recent challenges to federal gun restrictions, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s Bruen ruling. The court’s opinion found the federal government failed to demonstrate sufficient historical precedent for restricting gun rights based on marijuana use. The ruling adds momentum to ongoing debates about the intersection of gun ownership and drug policies and highlights the legal conflicts between state and federal marijuana laws.
Ohio Governor Signs Law Protecting Gun Owners’ Privacy
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has signed a bill aimed at protecting gun owners’ privacy, including prohibitions on mandatory firearm insurance. The legislation prevents the release of personal information about gun owners and aligns with broader efforts to safeguard Second Amendment rights in the state.
The Scioto Post, Ohio
Washington Supreme Court Hears High-Capacity Magazine Ban Challenge
The Washington State Supreme Court is reviewing a case that challenges the state’s high-capacity magazine ban. The lawsuit, brought by a gun shop owner, argues the law violates constitutional rights. The court’s ruling could set a precedent for similar laws nationwide.
Washington State Standard, Washington
Bill Seeks to Lower Concealed Carry Age to 18
A new bill proposed in Oklahoma would lower the legal age for concealed carry from 21 to 18. House Bill 1004 was filed by Rep. Jim Olsen (R-Roland). Olsen said if someone can get married or buy a house at the age of 18, they should be able to protect themselves.
Fox 25, Ohio
Nebraska Supreme Court Considers Lincoln Firearm Lawsuit
The Nebraska Supreme Court is hearing a case involving a lawsuit against the city of Lincoln over local firearm ordinances. The case, brought by gun rights advocates, challenges the city’s authority to enforce gun control measures stricter than state law.
CBS 3, Nebraska
