Trump Admin Ends Shotgun and Rifle Ban in DC
In a significant policy shift, federal prosecutors in the District of Columbia have been directed to stop bringing felony charges against individuals solely for carrying rifles or shotguns. The new directive, confirmed by U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro, stems from a Justice Department determination that the city's longstanding ban on the public carry of long guns is unconstitutional in light of recent Supreme Court precedent.
This change arrives at a seemingly contradictory moment, as the Trump administration simultaneously intensifies federal law enforcement presence in D.C. to combat crime. While the White House has highlighted the seizure of dozens of firearms under this new "surge," this policy carves out a major exception for non-violent possession of certain weapons.
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Policy in Practice
It is critical to note the specific limitations of this new directive. The U.S. Attorney's office will continue to vigorously prosecute other firearms offenses. The policy does not:The directive specifically targets the standalone charge of possessing a registered rifle or shotgun, separating the act of simple possession from its use in a violent crime. According to ATF data from 2023, authorities recovered 98 rifles and 38 shotguns in D.C., compared to 2,842 pistols and revolvers, illustrating the scale of the issue. The new policy represents a strategic legal decision to align prosecution with the current interpretation of constitutional law, even as the political rhetoric focuses on a broad crackdown on crime.
- Apply to handguns, which account for the vast majority of firearms offenses in the District.
- Prevent prosecutors from charging a convicted felon found in possession of any firearm, including a rifle or shotgun.
- Stop charges for crimes involving gun violence or firearms trafficking, regardless of the weapon type.
