What States Can a Felon Own a Gun in 2022?
For individuals with a criminal history, including those who have been convicted of a felony, the question of gun ownership is a pressing concern. In the United States, the laws surrounding gun ownership for felons are complex and vary from state to state. While federal law prohibits felons from owning firearms, many states have their own regulations that may allow certain individuals to own guns under specific circumstances.
Federal Law and Felon Gun Ownership
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), it is illegal for a person who has been convicted of a felony, or who has been dishonorably discharged from the military, to possess a firearm or ammunition. This includes individuals who have been convicted of a felony and are currently serving a prison sentence, as well as those who have completed their sentence but have not had their civil rights restored.
State-by-State Overview of Felon Gun Ownership Laws
While federal law provides a general framework, it is up to each state to determine its own regulations regarding felon gun ownership. Here is a state-by-state breakdown of the current laws:
| State | Can Felons Own Guns? | Restoration of Civil Rights |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Alaska | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Arizona | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Arkansas | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| California | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Colorado | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Connecticut | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Delaware | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Florida | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Georgia | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Hawaii | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Idaho | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Illinois | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Indiana | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Iowa | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Kansas | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Kentucky | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Louisiana | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Maine | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Maryland | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Massachusetts | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Michigan | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Minnesota | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Mississippi | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Missouri | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Montana | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Nebraska | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Nevada | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| New Hampshire | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| New Jersey | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| New Mexico | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| New York | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| North Carolina | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| North Dakota | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Ohio | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Oklahoma | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Oregon | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Pennsylvania | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| Rhode Island | No, but can petition for relief after 10 years | Required 10-year waiting period after petition |
| South Carolina | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| South Dakota | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Tennessee | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Texas | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Utah | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Vermont | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Virginia | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Washington | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| West Virginia | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Wisconsin | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
| Wyoming | Yes, with certain restrictions | Automatic restoration after 5 years |
Additional Considerations
It is important to note that even in states where felons are allowed to own guns, there may be certain restrictions or requirements in place. For example:
- Background checks: Some states require felons to undergo a background check before purchasing or possessing a firearm.
- License or permit: Felons may need to obtain a special license or permit in order to own or carry a gun.
- Certain types of firearms: Felons may be prohibited from owning certain types of firearms, such as assault rifles or handguns.
- Waiting period: In some states, felons must wait a certain period of time before they are eligible to own a gun again.
Conclusion
The laws surrounding felon gun ownership are complex and vary significantly from state to state. While federal law prohibits felons from owning firearms, many states have their own regulations that may allow certain individuals to own guns under specific circumstances. It is essential for individuals with a criminal history to understand the laws in their state and any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply. By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding felon gun ownership, individuals can make informed decisions about their right to bear arms.
