Many states across the nation bar guns from certain locations, such as state-run buildings and public schools. Proponents of these restrictions say that gun bans in these areas prevent easy targets from mass shootings — something that the United States knows much about, considering our country has by far the highest rates of school shootings across the globe. Yet Wisconsin legislators are currently looking back to roll back legislation upholding these restrictions. HB 172, sponsored by Wyoming Freedom Caucus member and Speaker Pro Tem Rep. Jeremy Haroldson (R-Wheatland), would allow the concealed carry of guns in these spaces. Those in support of HB 172 say that current restrictions are unfair to gun owners under the Second Amendment, and thus HB 172 would allow them to fulfill their constitutional rights. However, considering Wyoming’s significantly high rate of gun violence, many people are worried about the implications should HB 172 pass. (We bet you can’t answer these questions about American gun laws.)
Firearm regulations are generally designed and implemented to reduce the likelihood of gun violence. In states where gun control takes a backseat to gun rights, firearm fatality rates tend to be higher than average. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 124 firearm-related deaths in Wyoming in 2022, or about 20.4 for every 100,000 people, the 11th highest gun death rate of the 50 states. Using data compiled by Gifford’s Law Center, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed Wyoming’s approach to 14 key gun control policy areas. It is important to note that the laws on this list are not exhaustive, and only represent broad guidelines. Legal nuances can also vary at the local level.
Why It Matters
The United States has failed to implement any meaningful gun control reform in decades — with the exception of modest revisions to background check protocols. But state governments have the authority to enact their own policies. As a result, a patchwork of gun laws exist across the 50 states. Currently, Wyoming ranks as having the weakest state-level firearm regulations in the country, as well as one of the highest rates of gun violence and firearm deaths by suicide. While many states have sought to improve gun control measures, Wyoming has been distinctly against gun control, even rolling back prior regulations. For individuals interested in guns, or who live in or are thinking about moving to Wyoming, understanding the gun control legislation helps you make informed choices on safety.
Do you know Wyoming’s gun laws?:
1. Universal Background Check Laws
- State policy: Under federal law, all gun buyers must undergo a background check before obtaining a firearm from a licensed retailer — but transfers made from unlicensed retailers are exempt from background check requirements. While many states have closed this loophole with universal background check laws, Wyoming has not.
2. Mental Health Reporting
- State policy: Wyoming is not required to report individuals involuntarily committed to undergoing mental health treatment (including those under 18 years old living with a guardian to help manage their affairs), to federal background check databases.
3. Concealed Carry of a Firearm
- State policy: No permit is required to carry a concealed firearm in certain public places in Wyoming.
4. Handgun Open Carry Regulations
- State policy: Open carry of handguns is permitted in certain public places in Wyoming.
5. Long Gun Open Carry Regulations
- State policy: In Wyoming, open carry of a long gun is permitted in certain public places.
6. Stand Your Ground Laws
- State policy: Use of deadly force is permitted in public, if necessary, to prevent death or serious bodily harm — even if it is possible to step away from the incident.
7. Guns in Schools
- State policy: In Wyoming, firearms can be carried in K-12 schools by school security officers, teachers, and other school employees who have been granted permission. There is no mandate requiring colleges or universities to allow concealed carry on campus, and firearms are prohibited at the University of Wyoming.
8. Mandatory Waiting Periods for Firearm Purchases
- State policy: There is no mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases in Wyoming.
9. Assault-Style Weapons
- State policy: Assault-style weapons, like those modeled after AK-47 or M-16 military rifles, are not regulated in Wyoming.
10. High-Capacity Magazines
- State policy: Wyoming does not regulate or restrict high-capacity magazines.
11. Licensing Requirements
- State policy: Gun owners or prospective buyers do not need to obtain a permit in Wyoming.
12. State-Level Prohibitions on Who Can Own Firearms
- State policy: Wyoming does not meaningfully expand upon federal laws restricting access to firearms for certain individuals. However, the state does ban gun possession for individuals with felony convictions.
13. Minimum Age Requirements for Handguns
- State policy: In Wyoming, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun. However, the state does not set a minimum age requirement for possession of a handgun.
14. Minimum Age Requirements for Long Guns
- State policy: In Wyoming, individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun, like a rifle or shotgun. However, the state does not set a minimum age requirement for possession of a long gun.
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