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Hawaii Open Carry Laws

devinschumacher edited this page Oct 30, 2024 · 2 revisions

Hawaii Open Carry Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.


Hawaii Open Carry Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Hawaii Open Carry Laws

Over the past ten years, Hawaii’s gun laws have evolved to reflect the state’s dedication to stringent firearm regulations and public safety. From background checks to open carry restrictions, these developments have aimed to strike a balance between Second Amendment rights and community well-being. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Hawaii’s gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023.

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2013 — Firearm Registration and Permit Requirement

Hawaii enforces strict firearm registration and permit requirements for all firearm acquisitions, including long guns and handguns.

2014 — Ammunition Purchase Restrictions

Legislation is introduced to regulate ammunition sales, requiring a permit for purchasing ammunition and enhancing background checks.

2015 — Mandatory Firearm Safety Course

Hawaii mandates completion of a state-approved firearm safety course as a prerequisite for obtaining a firearm permit.

2016 — Background Checks for All Firearm Sales

The state enhances background checks by requiring them for all firearm sales, including private transactions.

2017 — “Red Flag” Law Implementation

Hawaii introduces Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO), allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals deemed a risk.

2018 — Enhanced Reporting of Mental Health Records

The state improves the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by individuals deemed ineligible.

2019 — Open Carry Restrictions

Hawaii enacts laws tightening open carry regulations, requiring applicants to demonstrate a justifiable need to carry a firearm.

2020 — Age Requirement for Firearm Purchases Raised

The minimum age for purchasing firearms, including long guns and handguns, is raised from 18 to 21 years old.

2021 — Firearm Storage Requirements

Hawaii introduces regulations mandating safe firearm storage to prevent unauthorized access, particularly in homes with minors.

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2022 — Background Check Expansions

The state considers expanding background checks to include private sales, raising discussions about closing potential loopholes.

2022 — Enhanced Training for Concealed Carry

Legislation aims to strengthen training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.

2023 — “Red Flag” Law Amendments

Hawaii revisits its “red flag” law, exploring potential enhancements to streamline the process for seeking temporary firearm removal.

2023 — Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms and Ammunition

Proposed legislation aims to require reporting lost or stolen firearms and ammunition to law enforcement, helping prevent the diversion of firearms to illegal markets.

2023 — Firearm Storage Inspections

Hawaii considers introducing firearm storage inspections to ensure compliance with safe storage requirements and prevent unauthorized access.

Hawaii’s gun laws have undergone significant transformation over the past decade, reflecting the state’s commitment to robust firearm regulations and public safety. From stringent registration and background checks to discussions on “red flag” law amendments and enhanced firearm training, these changes underscore Hawaii’s proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to adapt its laws to meet evolving challenges, it remains essential for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that prioritize both individual freedoms and community security.

Purchasing Firearms

Hawaii gun law, unlike many states in the United States, requires any person wishing to purchase or obtain a firearm to apply for a Hawaii gun permit that allows the transaction of firearms. The Hawaii gun permit to purchase extends to shotguns, rifles, and handguns. An individual must first apply for the permit to the chief of police pertaining to the county where the applicant resides or their place of business is located. The applicant must be at least 21 years of age and a citizen of the United States.

There is a fourteen-day waiting period for the Hawaii gun permit to purchase firearms after the application is submitted. The permits themselves are delegated with specific restrictions depending on the type of firearm being purchased or transferred. In the case of rifles or shotguns, a permit is valid for a period of one year, and the permit holder can make subsequent purchases of shotguns or rifles within that time period. In the case of handguns, a separate application and permit are required for each purchase.

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