As hunters begin preparing for the fall season, several states are rolling out new firearm laws that could affect everything from buying ammunition to carrying certain firearms in public.
While most of the new laws took effect in July, additional changes are still on the way in some states, creating a patchwork of regulations that gun owners should be aware of.
See the map, created by Newsweek, here.
Colorado Tightens Ammunition and Firearm Rules
Colorado has enacted some of the most significant firearm law changes this year.
Beginning in July, the state raised the minimum age to purchase ammunition from 18 to 21, except at licensed shooting ranges. Retailers must also keep ammunition behind counters or in locked displays rather than allowing customers to access it directly.
The state also expanded restrictions on so-called "ghost guns," limiting the use of 3D printers and other computer-assisted equipment to manufacture firearms and firearm parts.
Another major change arrives August 1, when most buyers of certain semi-automatic rifles and handguns with detachable magazines will first need to obtain a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card after completing a background check and state-approved safety training.
Rhode Island and Virginia Expand Restrictions
Rhode Island's new Assault Weapons Ban Act prohibits the manufacture, sale, purchase, and possession of many semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns that meet specific feature and magazine-capacity requirements. The law took effect July 1 and is among the broadest firearm restrictions enacted this year. The initial fact sheet for the law stated, "If enacted, this bill will prevent unnecessary bloodshed without hindering Rhode Islanders’
ability to hunt, shoot recreationally, or protect themselves."
Virginia also implemented new restrictions on certain semi-automatic firearms while expanding the state's legal definition of assault weapons. In addition, lawmakers approved limits on carrying certain firearms in public places, although enforcement of that provision has been temporarily blocked while legal challenges move through the courts.
Kentucky Moves in the Opposite Direction
Not every state is adding restrictions.
Kentucky has expanded concealed-carry rights for adults ages 18 to 20 who complete the required training and background checks. Previously, most residents in that age group could openly carry a firearm but generally could not obtain a concealed-carry license until turning 21.
What Hunters Should Know
Many hunting regulations remain separate from general firearm laws, but changes affecting ammunition purchases, firearm eligibility, or carrying rules could impact sportsmen traveling across state lines this season.
With dove, waterfowl, and big-game seasons approaching in many parts of the country, hunters are encouraged to review the latest regulations in any state where they plan to hunt, particularly if they'll be transporting firearms or purchasing ammunition during their trip.
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