Why Do US States Have Different Gun Laws?
States with the Least Successful Gun Control
The states with the least successful gun control are: Kansas, Alaska, Missouri, New Hampshire, Arizona, Oklahoma, Wyoming, South Dakota, Arkansas, Montana, Idaho, and Mississippi.
States with the Strictest Gun Control
The states with the strictest gun control are: California, Hawaii, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Gun Control
- Gun ownership is a civil right protected by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. As a civil right, all adult citizens without a felony record can own a gun. However, the Constitution does not specify the types of guns that can be carried, leading to differing interpretations of gun control between the federal government and the states. Most states have relatively few restrictions on non-automatic long guns. Anyone who passes a prompt criminal history check can purchase a gun immediately without registration, meaning the government doesn't know who owns the gun. The requirements for purchasing a handgun are generally higher, and some states require registration.
- In some states with more favorable gun laws, you can purchase virtually any restricted firearm (short-barreled rifles, silencers, etc.) by paying a fee, filling out a form, and undergoing a rigorous review. States with stricter gun laws (such as California, New York, and Illinois) require a gun license.
- 48 of the 50 states allow concealed carry (carrying a loaded handgun on your person). Most of these states require a gun license, which must be issued upon passing the exam. Without a concealed carry license, carrying a gun outdoors requires that it be locked and unloaded in the trunk of a car or somewhere out of reach. As long as it's legal, there are no geographic restrictions on carrying a gun, including on airplanes (locked and checked).
Gun laws vary significantly across the US.
The following are some representative states:
- California
California has one of the strictest gun laws in the US. This state requires detailed background checks for buyers and imposes strict restrictions on gun sales.
Background Checks: Buyers must pass a detailed background check, including criminal records and mental health history.
Gun Type Restrictions: Fully automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines are prohibited.
- Florida
Florida has more relaxed gun laws, but still requires buyers to undergo background checks.
Background Checks: Buyers must pass a background check, including criminal records and mental health history.
Gun Carry Permits: Unlicensed gun carry is permitted, but certain regulations apply.
- New Jersey
New Jersey has very strict gun laws, including strict background checks and restrictions.
Background Checks: Buyers must pass a rigorous background check.
Gun Type Restrictions: Fully automatic weapons and large-capacity ammunition are prohibited.
Gun Carry Permits: A permit is required.