Moderately Restrictive
Minnesota Gun Laws 2026
Minnesota gun law rating: B- (Moderately Restrictive). Ranked #16 out of 50 states for gun law strength. Key policies: permitless carry (No), red flag law (Yes), assault weapons ban (No).
B-
Overall Grade
#16
State Rank (strength)
Permitless Carry: No
Constitutional Carry
Red Flag: Yes
ERPO Law
Key Gun Law Provisions
| Provision | Status |
|---|---|
| Permitless (Constitutional) Carry | No |
| Red Flag Law (ERPO) | Yes |
| Assault Weapons Ban | No |
| Universal Background Checks (private sales) | Yes |
| Waiting Period | None |
| Magazine Capacity Limit | None |
Overview
Minnesota passed universal background checks and a red flag law in 2023, part of a sweeping progressive agenda when Democrats held a trifecta. The state requires a permit to purchase handguns.
2026 Political Impact
Minnesota is a key 2026 Senate battleground. Gun safety measures passed in 2023 but remain popular — Democrats will use them as a contrast in the Senate race.