2026 State Gun Laws: Key Changes and New Regulations

Federal tax changes take effect

Use this section to make the State Gun Laws decision easier to compare in real life, not just on paper. Start with the reader's actual constraint, then separate must-have requirements from details that are merely nice to have. A practical choice should survive normal use, maintenance, timing, and budget. If a recommendation only works in an ideal situation, call that out plainly and give the reader a fallback path.

The simplest way to use this section is to write down the must-have criteria first, then compare each option against those criteria before weighing nice-to-have features.

Assault weapon bans expand

Several states are moving forward with new restrictions on assault weapons in 2026, though the scope of these bans varies significantly. The primary distinction in these regulations lies between purchasing and possessing firearms. Some jurisdictions prohibit the acquisition of defined assault weapons while allowing existing owners to keep them, whereas others enforce comprehensive bans on both. Understanding these differences is essential for compliance with state-specific statutes.

Michigan's purchase restriction

Michigan has enacted a law targeting the sale and transfer of assault weapons, scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026. This legislation prohibits the purchase of newly defined assault weapons but does not ban the possession of firearms that were legally owned prior to the enactment date. Residents who already possess these firearms are not required to surrender them, provided they remain in compliance with all other state and federal laws. The statute focuses on limiting the influx of these weapons into the state rather than removing existing stock.

Other state enactments

Beyond Michigan, multiple states are reviewing or implementing similar measures for 2026. These efforts often involve expanding existing definitions of assault weapons to include specific features or accessories. Regulations require that dealers and private sellers adhere to new reporting or waiting period requirements for these firearms. The legislative landscape remains active, with bills introduced in various jurisdictions aiming to close loopholes in current frameworks. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, residents should consult official state legislative sources and primary legal texts.

Permit-to-carry reforms vary

Use this section to make the State Gun Laws decision easier to compare in real life, not just on paper. Start with the reader's actual constraint, then separate must-have requirements from details that are merely nice to have. A practical choice should survive normal use, maintenance, timing, and budget. If a recommendation only works in an ideal situation, call that out plainly and give the reader a fallback path.

Secure storage and red flag laws

Use this section to make the State Gun Laws decision easier to compare in real life, not just on paper. Start with the reader's actual constraint, then separate must-have requirements from details that are merely nice to have. A practical choice should survive normal use, maintenance, timing, and budget. If a recommendation only works in an ideal situation, call that out plainly and give the reader a fallback path.

The simplest way to use this section is to write down the must-have criteria first, then compare each option against those criteria before weighing nice-to-have features.

Check your state's specific rules

Gun regulations change frequently, and the only reliable reference is your state’s official legislative text. Because statutes vary by jurisdiction, you should verify current laws directly with your state government rather than relying on third-party summaries.

For example, Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources outlines statewide handgun regulations, including age requirements and restrictions on borrowing or loaning firearms michigan.gov/dnr. Similarly, federal changes such as the $0 tax rate for certain NFA firearms under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (effective January 1, 2026) require checking with the Congressional Research Service for precise applicability.

Always consult the primary source for your jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the most recent statutory updates.