DELAWARE GUN LAWS & REGULATIONS UPDATE 2023
A DECADE OF CHANGE: AN UPDATED OVERVIEW OF DELAWARE’S GUN LAWS AND REGULATIONS TIMELINE (2013-2023)
Over the past ten years, Delaware’s gun laws have witnessed significant changes, reflecting the state’s ongoing commitment to enhancing firearm safety and responsible ownership. From background checks to assault weapon regulations, these developments have aimed to strike a balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Delaware’s gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023, organized in the form of bullet points:
2013 – Background Checks for All Firearm Sales:
   – Delaware enacts laws requiring universal background checks for all firearm sales, closing potential loopholes in private transactions.
2014 – Concealed Carry Permit Requirements:
   – The state introduces stringent criteria for concealed carry permits, requiring applicants to demonstrate a “good and substantial reason” for carrying a concealed firearm.
2015 – Domestic Violence Offender Firearm Restrictions:
   – Legislation is passed to prohibit individuals convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses or subject to protective orders from owning firearms.
2016 – Firearms Prohibition for Mental Health Concerns:
   – Delaware enforces stricter restrictions on firearm ownership for individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others due to mental health concerns.
2017 – “Red Flag” Law Implementation:
   – Delaware introduces Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO), allowing family members and law enforcement to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals deemed at risk.
2018 – Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms:
   – Legislation mandates reporting lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement within a specific timeframe, aiming to prevent the diversion of firearms to illegal markets.
2019 – Age Limit for Firearm Purchases Raised:
   – The minimum age for purchasing firearms, including long guns and handguns, is raised from 18 to 21 years old, aligning with federal age restrictions.
2020 – “Assault Weapon” and “High-Capacity” Magazine Ban Consideration:
   – Discussion arises around proposed legislation to ban certain assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, sparking debates on the balance between personal rights and community safety.
2021 – Enhanced Background Checks for Concealed Carry Permits:
   – Delaware strengthens background checks for concealed carry permit applicants, requiring a thorough review of mental health history and criminal records.
2022 – Firearm Storage Requirements:
    – The state introduces regulations mandating safe firearm storage to prevent unauthorized access, particularly by minors.
2022 – Firearms Training Requirements for Concealed Carry:
    – Delaware considers enhancing training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.
2023 – Reporting Lost or Stolen Ammunition:
    – Proposed legislation aims to require reporting lost or stolen ammunition to law enforcement, similar to the reporting requirement for firearms.
2023 – Stricter Penalties for Firearm Trafficking:
    – Delaware enforces harsher penalties for firearm trafficking, aiming to deter illegal firearms distribution.
2023 – Assault Weapon and High-Capacity Magazine Ban Enactment:
    – Legislation is passed to ban certain assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, following a comprehensive review of the potential impacts on public safety.
Delaware’s gun laws have evolved significantly in the past decade, reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to strike a balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety concerns. From universal background checks and concealed carry regulations to “red flag” laws and potential bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, these changes underscore Delaware’s commitment to responsible firearm ownership. As the state continues to navigate this complex terrain, it remains crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that prioritize both individual freedoms and community well-being.