Guns in the News – 2025
The Second Amendment remains a hot topic in 2025, with gun rights and regulations sparking debate across the nation. From court decisions challenging long-standing firearm restrictions to new legislation shaping the future of concealed carry, this year has already seen significant developments that impact gun owners. As laws evolve and legal battles unfold, it’s more important than ever for responsible firearm owners to stay informed. This year’s “Guns in the News” roundup will highlight the most notable stories affecting your rights, safety and responsibilities. Whether you’re concerned about new laws, legal victories or proposed regulations, we’ve got you covered with the latest updates from around the country.
January
Senator Cornyn Proposes Bill for Nationwide Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has introduced a bill to establish nationwide concealed carry reciprocity, allowing permit holders to legally carry across state lines. Proponents argue it simplifies legal travel for gun owners, while critics worry it undermines state-specific firearm regulations. President Trump voiced support for the law while on the campaign trail.
Colorado Lawmakers Consider Ban on Detachable Magazines
A proposed bill in Colorado would ban the sale, purchase and manufacture of semi-automatic firearms with detachable magazines. Senate Bill 3 would affect many pistols and rifles, whose manufacturers don’t appear to make versions of the weapons without removable magazines. It would also outlaw rapid-fire trigger activators and bump stocks.
Colorado Sun, Colorado
Attorneys General Plan to Defend Gun Regulations
More than a dozen Democratic state attorneys general have said they plan to defend two gun regulations now being challenged in court, including one banning devices that enable semi-automatic guns to fire more quickly. One case involves devices known as forced reset triggers, or FRTs, which can be installed on weapons, functionally turning them into machine guns, according to Platkin. The other centers on a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives regulation that came out of a 2022 law.
Supreme Court Declines Multiple Second Amendment Cases
The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected several Second Amendment-related cases while keeping gun ban challenges under review. Advocates on both sides of the gun rights debate await the Court’s next steps, which could clarify or reshape firearm regulations nationwide.
Appeals Court Overturns Pennsylvania Emergency Gun Carry Ban
A Pennsylvania emergency gun carry ban has been blocked by an appeals court following a Supreme Court remand. Pennsylvania had attempted to ban the open carry of firearms for 18- to 20-year-olds during declared emergencies. The court ruled the ban violated constitutional rights, with Second Amendment groups celebrating the decision as a victory for lawful gun owners.
The Reload, Pennsylvania
Illinois Supreme Court Hears Arguments Against Concealed Carry Law
The Illinois Supreme Court has heard arguments challenging the state’s concealed carry law, with opponents claiming it violates constitutional rights. Under Illinois’ aggravated unlawful use of a weapon statute, individuals are not allowed to carry a firearm in public unless the person has a valid Concealed Carry License. The case could have significant implications for gun owners and firearm regulations within the state.
NPR, Illinois
Attorney General Nominee Pam Bondi Signals Openness to Gun Control Talks
During her confirmation hearings, Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi expressed a willingness to collaborate with Democrats on gun control measures. When asked about gun laws such as “red flags,” Bondi said she would defend the laws of the United States. Bondi’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from gun rights advocates, who fear potential compromises on Second Amendment issues.
White House Gun Violence Prevention Website Goes Offline
The White House’s official Gun Violence Prevention website has unexpectedly gone offline, sparking speculation about the administration’s stance on firearms policy. Critics have called for transparency, while supporters argue it may signal a strategic shift in approach.
Lawsuit Defends Truckers’ Right to Carry Firearms Across State Lines
The Liberty Justice Center has filed a lawsuit challenging laws that restrict truck drivers from carrying firearms while traveling across state borders. The case argues these laws violate the Second Amendment and interstate commerce protections, with implications for lawful gun owners nationwide.
Wyoming Adopts New Rules Allowing Firearms in State Capitol
Wyoming officials have unanimously approved new rules permitting firearms in the state Capitol, provided carriers meet specific requirements. Firearms are currently prohibited in the state Capitol, but Gov. Mark Gordon promised, after vetoing a 2024 bill that would have lifted all gun-free zones statewide, to consider lifting gun-free zones in state-owned buildings operated through the executive branch.
Wyoming Tribune Eagle, Wyoming
Fifth Circuit Reaffirms Gun Rights for Marijuana Users
The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled in favor of gun rights for marijuana users, declaring that federal prohibitions barring cannabis users from owning firearms are unconstitutional. This decision builds on recent challenges to federal gun restrictions, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s Bruen ruling. The court’s opinion found the federal government failed to demonstrate sufficient historical precedent for restricting gun rights based on marijuana use. The ruling adds momentum to ongoing debates about the intersection of gun ownership and drug policies and highlights the legal conflicts between state and federal marijuana laws.
Ohio Governor Signs Law Protecting Gun Owners’ Privacy
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has signed a bill aimed at protecting gun owners’ privacy, including prohibitions on mandatory firearm insurance. The legislation prevents the release of personal information about gun owners and aligns with broader efforts to safeguard Second Amendment rights in the state.
The Scioto Post, Ohio
Washington Supreme Court Hears High-Capacity Magazine Ban Challenge
The Washington State Supreme Court is reviewing a case that challenges the state’s high-capacity magazine ban. The lawsuit, brought by a gun shop owner, argues the law violates constitutional rights. The court’s ruling could set a precedent for similar laws nationwide.
Washington State Standard, Washington
Bill Seeks to Lower Concealed Carry Age to 18
A new bill proposed in Oklahoma would lower the legal age for concealed carry from 21 to 18. House Bill 1004 was filed by Rep. Jim Olsen (R-Roland). Olsen said if someone can get married or buy a house at the age of 18, they should be able to protect themselves.
Fox 25, Ohio
Nebraska Supreme Court Considers Lincoln Firearm Lawsuit
The Nebraska Supreme Court is hearing a case involving a lawsuit against the city of Lincoln over local firearm ordinances. The case, brought by gun rights advocates, challenges the city’s authority to enforce gun control measures stricter than state law.
CBS 3, Nebraska
