With 2025 upon us, several states across the U.S. are rolling out new firearm-related laws that may impact gun owners, manufacturers, and dealers. From restrictions on firearm transactions to expanded concealed carry requirements, here’s a look at some of the most notable changes coming into effect.
California
California continues to introduce some of the strictest gun laws in the country. New legislation includes:
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AB 1483 – Strengthens the rule against applying for more than one handgun in a 30-day period by removing an exemption for private party transactions. This law is currently under legal challenges and won’t be enforced while court proceedings are underway.
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AB 1598 – Mandates firearm dealers provide a pamphlet outlining the risks and responsibilities of firearm ownership to consumers.
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AB 2917 – Expands court considerations for issuing gun violence restraining orders based on threats of violence.
Colorado
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HB 24-1348 – Requires that handguns stored inside unoccupied vehicles be locked inside a hard-sided container and out of plain view. The vehicle itself must also be locked.
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HB 24-1174 – Changes concealed carry laws by requiring applicants to complete an eight-hour training course, including a written test and live-fire exercise. Additionally, individuals with specific misdemeanor convictions within five years of applying will be barred from obtaining a permit. (Effective July 1, 2025.)
New Hampshire
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HB 1186 – Strengthens privacy protections by prohibiting the use of specific merchant category codes for firearm-related purchases.
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HB 1336 – Prevents employers from prohibiting employees from storing firearms in locked vehicles on company property.
Kentucky
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HB 357 – Prohibits financial institutions from requiring firearm-related merchant category codes. Also bans government or private entities from maintaining records of privately owned firearms or their owners based on such codes.
Minnesota
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HF 5247 – Criminalizes the ownership or possession of binary triggers.
Delaware
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HB 201 – Establishes felony charges for possessing a firearm on university campuses.
New York
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S6649/A2882 – Requires firearms dealers and gunsmiths to post warning signs at sales locations and provide warnings at the time of firearm purchases. These warnings highlight the increased risk of suicide, domestic violence, and accidental deaths involving children.
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S3340 – Adds extreme risk protection orders (Red Flag laws) to a statewide registry that tracks orders of protection and certain warrants.
Why This Matters to Gun Owners
These new laws could impact gun owners, concealed carriers, and firearms businesses. Whether you’re looking to purchase a new AR-15, store your firearm in a vehicle, or purchase firearm accessories like thread adapters or thread protectors, staying informed on your state’s legislation is crucial. As gun rights debates continue across the country, these laws set the stage for further legal battles and policy changes.
Stay Informed & Protect Your Rights
Gun laws are constantly evolving, and staying informed is key to protecting your rights as a firearm owner. Ensure compliance with state regulations, support pro-Second Amendment advocacy, and keep up with the latest developments in gun legislation.
