Johnathan 'Buck' Rogers is a retired law enforcement officer with over 30 years of experience in the field. He has worked in various capacities, including as a patrol officer, detective, and SWAT team member. Buck has a deep understanding of gun laws and is passionate about educating the public on this important topic. He has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
As a former law enforcement officer and an expert in gun laws, I can tell you that 2021 has seen several significant changes to gun safety laws in the United States. These changes have occurred both at the federal and state levels, with each state having its own unique set of laws and regulations.
Unpacking the 2021 Shifts in Federal Gun Laws 📜
At the federal level, the most notable change in 2021 is the proposed rule by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to redefine the term "frame or receiver." This change, if implemented, could greatly expand the number of items considered firearms under federal law and subject to regulations. Furthermore, the ATF has also proposed a rule to regulate "ghost guns," firearms that are assembled at home and lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace.
Diving into the State-Wise Gun Law Changes in 2021 🌐
On the state level, changes to gun safety laws in 2021 have been quite diverse. Let's delve into a few examples:
Virginia's Strides Towards Stricter Gun Control in 2021 🏛️
In Virginia, a new law requires background checks for all gun sales, and the state has also implemented a "red flag" law that allows authorities to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others. Virginia has also limited handgun purchases to one per month, a restriction that had been repealed in 2012.
Iowa's 2021 Journey: A Step Towards Looser Gun Laws 🌽
On the other hand, Iowa has moved to loosen its gun laws. As of July 1, 2021, the state no longer requires a permit to purchase or carry handguns, a significant change from previous regulations.
The 2021 Texas Tangle: Handguns Without Permits or Training 🤠
Texas also made headlines in 2021 by passing a law that allows most adults to carry handguns without a permit or training, a measure known as "constitutional carry."
US Gun Laws Update 2021
Test your knowledge on the recent changes in US gun laws
Learn more about 🔫 US Gun Laws Update 2021: Test Your Knowledge with Our Interactive Quiz or discover other Gun Laws by State quizzes.
These are just a few examples of the changes that have occurred in 2021. For a more detailed look at the gun laws in each state, you can check out my comprehensive guide here.