January 02, 2026

2026 Gun Laws You Need to Know

Photo:New laws, familiar hardware. 2026 brings important changes every gun owner should know.

Fact: January 1, 2026 marks one of the biggest shifts in gun-related law in decades, with changes at both the federal and state level that could affect every gun owner.

2026 is shaping up to be a year of major legal change for firearm owners. Some of the biggest updates involve federal tax requirements, state storage rules, ghost guns, and more. If you own guns or deal with them regularly, these are the laws you want on your radar.

Federal NFA Changes

Starting January 1, 2026, the federal government is eliminating the $200 tax stamp on many National Firearms Act items. That includes suppressors, short-barreled rifles and shotguns, and “any other weapons.” Registration and background checks still apply, but the tax cost goes away.

For many shooters, this will be the most noticeable change of the new year. Suppressors in particular have been a favorite accessory for improving hearing protection and range comfort, but the tax stamp often discouraged ownership. That barrier is coming down.

State Gun Storage and Responsibility Laws

In Illinois, new laws taking effect in 2026 require secure gun storage whenever a minor, someone at risk of harm, or someone prohibited from possessing firearms could access them. Leaving guns unsecured when you know they could be accessed by another person can result in fines up to $10,000. Gun owners must also report lost or stolen guns within 48 hours.

This is a big shift in how some states approach responsibility and liability. Knowing what your state requires can keep you on the right side of the law.

Ghost Guns and California

California is expanding its approach to ghost guns and unregulated firearm manufacturing. New laws coming into effect January 1, 2026 tighten how firearm barrels, accessories, and manufacturing machines are regulated. Sellers will have to verify age and identity and provide clear consumer notices. The laws also create new civil and criminal consequences for facilitating illegal manufacturing.
California DOJ

If you're in or doing business with California, these changes are significant. This represents one of the strongest statewide crackdowns on unserialized and homemade firearms-related products in the country.

What Else Might Be Coming?

It's not just these laws. Legislatures across the country are active. For example, Colorado has tightened rules around gun shows beginning in 2026, with new security, insurance, and age requirements that have drawn sharp debate from sellers and advocacy groups.
KOAA News 5

And in other states, lawmakers are starting sessions where new proposals — from red flag laws to purchase limits, waiting periods, and concealed carry adjustments — are being discussed for 2026.
Reddit

On the federal front, bills like the Federal Firearm Licensing Act have been introduced that would require a federal license to purchase or receive firearms, although they remain in early stages.
Cory Booker

What It Means for You

2026 is not a year to ignore if you carry, own, buy, or sell guns. Federal tax savings, stricter storage rules, and state-by-state regulatory shifts could all impact how you stay safe and legal.

The best rule of thumb: know what's changing in your jurisdiction, take advantage of federal updates like the NFA tax removal, and always maintain secure, responsible firearm practices.


Until next time, stay locked and loaded.
- Randy, Locked N Loaded

Please add randy@gophercentral.com to your address book or visit here.

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