Assault weapons bans remain a patchwork across the United States as courts weigh their legality. Several states have passed laws restricting access to high-capacity firearms. Legal challenges continue to reshape the landscape.
California maintains one of the nation’s strictest assault weapons bans. The law prohibits the sale and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms with military-style features. Court rulings have repeatedly upheld the measure while narrowing its scope.
New York enacted a similar ban following a mass shooting in 2022. The law expanded the definition of assault weapons and required background checks for ammunition. A federal appeals court recently allowed most provisions to stand.
Illinois passed a comprehensive ban in 2023 covering dozens of specific firearm models. The law also limits magazine capacity to ten rounds for rifles and fifteen for handguns. Gun rights groups have challenged it in federal court.
Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey enforce longstanding bans on assault-style weapons. These states use feature-based criteria to define prohibited firearms. Enforcement relies on registration requirements and dealer compliance.
Maryland and Delaware have enacted bans in recent years. Delaware’s law includes a buyback program for existing owners. Maryland’s statute faces an ongoing legal challenge over its constitutionality.
A handful of other states, including Hawaii and Washington, have passed laws restricting assault weapons. Washington’s ban covers the sale, manufacture, and import of specific semi-automatic rifles. Hawaii’s law focuses on high-capacity magazines.
Federal courts have issued conflicting rulings on assault weapons bans. The Supreme Court has not directly addressed the issue since a 2022 decision on gun rights. Lower courts continue to apply different legal standards.
Gun rights advocates argue the bans violate the Second Amendment. Supporters contend the restrictions are necessary to reduce mass shootings. The debate remains unresolved as litigation proceeds.
