California
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #1
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: 111 regulations, including bans on semi-automatic rifles and stringent background checks
California has the strongest gun laws in the country, and they continue to sign new legislation to enhance these laws further. New legislation in 2024 is focused on stronger safe storage requirements and measures to prevent gun-related hate crimes and domestic violence.
Colorado
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #11
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Universal background checks; bans on large-capacity magazines
Colorado recently placed a ban on “ghost guns,” firearms that are 3D-printed or assembled from kits. Owners of these firearms without serial numbers can still register them before the end of 2024. The state also introduced new firearm storage requirements in vehicles.
Illinois
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #3
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Mandatory background checks; ban on assault weapons
In 2024, Illinois plans to introduce new measures to hold the firearms industry accountable and enhance gun safety. These upcoming changes will focus on further reducing gun violence and protecting communities from firearm-related threats.
Michigan
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #20
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Universal background checks; secure storage requirements
A new bill has gone into effect in 2024 in Michigan, introducing new red flag laws and expanding restrictions on firearm possession for individuals with domestic violence convictions. The state’s laws focus on keeping guns out of the wrong hands.
Minnesota
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #14
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Mandatory background checks for all gun sales; Extreme Risk law
In 2024, Minnesota introduced Extreme Risk Protection Orders (also known as Red Flag Gun Confiscation Orders), which allow courts to temporarily remove guns from the possession of people determined to be a threat to themselves or others.
Washington
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #9
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines
Washington now requires a background check, a 10-day waiting period, and a safety training program for all firearm purchases. New legislation is also attempting to ban open carry in public libraries, zoos, aquariums, and bus stops.
Oregon
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #10
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on new laws to prevent gun violence
- Regulations: Requires permits for firearm purchases; bans on high-capacity magazines
In 2024, Oregon will implement stricter regulations on ghost guns and 3D-printed firearms, aiming to close loopholes in gun control laws. These changes focus on reducing the availability of untraceable weapons and ensuring comprehensive firearm regulation.
Arkansas
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #50
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on individual freedoms and limiting gun regulations
- Regulations: Allows permit less carry for individuals over 18; no background check requirements for private sales
Arkansas has the most relaxed gun laws in the country. In 2024, the state will see clarifications in concealed carry licenses, simplifying laws for travelers. Additionally, self-defense laws will be further defined to support residents exercising their rights to defend themselves.
Wyoming
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #44
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on individual freedoms and limiting gun regulations
- Regulations: Residents and non-residents allowed to carry firearms without a permit; no restrictions on assault weapons or high-capacity magazines
In 2024, Wyoming is looking to simplify processes for concealed carry permit holders, maintaining the state’s strong stance on Second Amendment rights. Many colleges, including the University of Wyoming, are also planning to loosen their campuswide firearms ban.
Idaho
- Strength of Gun Laws Rating: #48
- Gun Law Status: Focusing on individual freedoms and limiting gun regulations
- Regulations: Allows permit less carry for residents 18 years or older and non-residents 21 years or older; no restrictions on assault weapons or high-capacity magazines
Idaho is another state that is working to simplify the process for concealed carry permit holders. Laws regarding permits for a person from one state to legally carry concealed in another state are subject to change.