Gun laws in the United States (by state)
Gun laws in the United States vary from state to state and are independent of, but not contradictory to, existing federal firearms laws. Some U.S. states have also created so-called assault weapon bans that are independent of, though often similar to, the expired federal assault weapons ban. The state level bans vary significantly in their form, content, and level of restriction. Forty-four states have a provision in their state constitutions similar to the Second Amendment of the Bill of Rights (the exceptions are California, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York). Firearm license-holders are subject to the firearm laws of the state in which they are carrying, and not to the laws of the state in which the permit was issued. Reciprocity between states exists for certain licenses such as concealed carry permits. These are recognized on a state-by-state basis. For example, Arizona recognizes a Nevada permit, but Nevada does not recognize an Arizona permit.
