Connecticut Gun Laws
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Connecticut has undergone significant changes in its gun laws over the past decade, emphasizing firearm safety and responsible ownership. This guide provides an overview of key developments in Connecticut’s gun laws from 2013 to 2023.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, Connecticut enacted sweeping reforms, including universal background checks, handgun registration, and an assault weapon ban.
Connecticut introduced requirements for a permit to purchase ammunition, aimed at promoting responsible ownership and restricting access to prohibited individuals.
The state implemented “risk warrant” laws, allowing temporary firearm removal from individuals considered a danger to themselves or others.
Legislation mandated serialization and documentation of “ghost guns” to prevent the creation of untraceable firearms.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Connecticut banned the possession and sale of “bump stocks,” devices that increase a firearm’s rate of fire.
Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) laws were adopted, enabling temporary firearm removal from individuals showing dangerous behavior.
Background checks were expanded to include private sales of long guns, closing potential loopholes.
Laws were introduced requiring safe firearm storage to prevent unauthorized access, particularly by minors.
Permits became mandatory for purchasing ammunition, adding a layer of background checks for ammunition buyers.
Connecticut revised the definition of “assault weapons,” further restricting their ownership and sale.
The minimum age for purchasing long guns was raised from 18 to 21 years old, aligning with federal regulations.
Connecticut improved reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by prohibited individuals.
Harsher penalties were enforced for firearm trafficking to deter the illegal distribution of firearms.
Legislation is under consideration to enhance firearms training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on safe firearm handling and responsible ownership.
