Gun laws across various states in the U.S. vary significantly, reflecting each state’s stance on firearm ownership and use. These regulations often require individuals to secure specific permits for handgun purchases and may necessitate a broader Firearms Purchaser Identification Card for the acquisition of rifles and shotguns. In many states, public carrying of firearms is tightly regulated, with open carry of handguns frequently banned and concealed carry permits being challenging to obtain.
Additionally, several states have adopted “red flag” laws, enabling family members and law enforcement to petition courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed to pose a serious risk to themselves or others, actively working to prevent gun violence. The framework of gun regulations generally falls into two broad categories: the first encompasses the rules surrounding legal firearm purchases and ownership, while the second deals with firearm violations and criminal gun offenses.
