Saint Paul Bans Assault Weapons, High-Capacity Magazines Pending State Action

Saint Paul, Minnesota, adopted a comprehensive gun violence prevention ordinance today banning assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines, a move aimed at curbing firearm violence within the city limits.

The ordinance, unanimously passed by the City Council, establishes five key provisions: a ban on the possession of assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, and binary triggers; restrictions on firearms in sensitive public spaces like parks and libraries; and exemptions for active-duty law enforcement, military personnel, and licensed firearms curators. The city’s existing safe storage ordinance will apply to those transporting firearms through Saint Paul. This action comes as gun violence continues to be a leading cause of death for young people in the United States, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Saint Paul stands ready to act on day one when the state lifts preemption,” said Mayor Carter. “This ordinance represents a collective effort by local leaders taking a long-overdue step to protect our children, families, and neighbors.” Council President Noecker added, “This is not just us pointing fingers at other levels of government, but to point the finger at ourselves and say, ‘what can we do?’ Passing this ordinance is not symbolic. It is us showing that we are ready to go.” The ordinance is contingent upon the Minnesota legislature lifting state preemption laws, which currently limit the ability of cities to enact their own gun control measures. You can learn more about Minnesota state laws on the official state website.

Saint Paul is the first city in a coalition of Minnesota municipalities—including Minneapolis, Bloomington, and Rochester—to formally enact such legislation, following a pledge made last month to address gun violence locally. City officials will continue to work with coalition partners and community advocates as they await action from state lawmakers.