The second amendment- is it being observed?
Within
the United States, citizens are legally restricted from carrying or
possessing firearms. Key categories of restrictions are:
- Convicted felons (and some misdemeanor domestic-violence convictions) — prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
- Individuals subject to certain restraining/protective orders (domestic violence, stalking) — prohibited while order is in effect.
- Persons adjudicated as mentally ill or involuntarily committed — federally prohibited.
- Illegal aliens and non-immigrant visa holders — prohibited from possessing firearms.
- Persons dishonorably discharged from the military — federally prohibited.
- Individuals who have renounced U.S. citizenship — prohibited.
- Persons under indictment for, or convicted of, certain crimes — restrictions vary by charge and status.
- Minors — age-based restrictions; specifics vary by state (who may purchase, possess, or carry).
- Places where firearms are specifically prohibited by law or policy — examples include:
- Federal buildings, courthouses, and many federal lands (with posted prohibitions).
- K–12 schools and many college campuses (state laws vary; some permit licensed carry in certain cases).
- Airports (past security checkpoints) and planes (with narrow exceptions).
- Polling places on election day (varies by state).
- Prisons and jails.
- Private property where the owner forbids firearms (“no guns” signs enforceable in many states).
- Bars or establishments serving alcohol (state dependent).
- Certain public gatherings or events when local authorities prohibit weapons.
State
and local laws add further restrictions (waiting periods, licensing,
permit-to-purchase, open vs. concealed carry rules, assault-weapon or
magazine bans, red-flag laws, secure-storage requirements). Because
specifics vary by state and locality, for a particular state, city, or
situation