USPS proposal would allow handguns to be sent through the mail for the first time since 1927
Updated on: May 8, 2026 / 12:01 AM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- A proposed USPS rule could allow handguns to be mailed for the first time since 1927.
- The Department of Justice argues the 1927 law banning concealable firearm mail is unconstitutional and violates the Second Amendment.
- Twenty-four Democratic attorneys general have sent a letter opposing the rule change, citing concerns about increased gun violence and difficulty in solving gun crimes.
- Current USPS regulations allow mailing of unloaded, securely packaged long guns but not handguns.
- The proposed rule includes restrictions for mailing handguns across state lines, requiring them to be mailed to oneself in care of another person.
- Opponents argue the rule change bypasses state-specific firearm safety courses, background checks, and mental health history checks.
- Firearm advocacy groups, like the NRA, support the change, while gun safety organizations, like Everytown for Gun Safety, oppose it.