Assault Weapon Laws by State
There is no single federal definition of “assault weapon.” Each state that restricts these firearms writes its own definition — some use a features-based test (prohibiting semi-automatic rifles with a detachable magazine plus one or more listed features such as a pistol grip, folding stock, or flash suppressor), others use a named-model list, and several states use both approaches together. For gun owners traveling across state lines, a rifle that is fully legal at home may become a felony the moment you cross into a neighboring state. Knowing which states have bans — and how those bans are written — is critical before any interstate travel with a semi-automatic firearm.
States With Assault Weapon Bans(11)
Possession, sale, or manufacture of covered firearms is restricted or prohibited.
States Without Assault Weapon Bans(40)
No state-level ban on assault weapons. Federal law and local ordinances may still apply.
How Definitions Vary
Features-Based Tests
California, Maryland, New Jersey, and Washington define assault weapons by characteristics: a semi-automatic centerfire rifle with a detachable magazine is restricted if it has any one (CA, WA) or any two (older MD rules) of a list of prohibited features — pistol grip, thumbhole stock, folding or telescoping stock, grenade or flare launcher, flash suppressor, or forward pistol grip.
Named-Model Lists
New York's SAFE Act combines a features test with an explicit named-model list covering specific manufacturers and configurations. Connecticut and Delaware also rely substantially on named lists. If a firearm appears on the list by make and model, it is banned regardless of its features.
Illinois (PICA)
Illinois enacted the Protect Illinois Communities Act (PICA) in 2023, which prohibits the manufacture, delivery, sale, import, and purchase of assault weapons and .50 caliber rifles. PICA uses both features definitions and named models, and also restricts large-capacity ammunition feeding devices.
Hawaii & Massachusetts
Hawaii bans assault weapons and .50 caliber rifles by name and feature. Massachusetts bans assault weapons under M.G.L. c.140 §131M and relies on the federal FAWB definition plus an evolving AG enforcement policy — the AG has issued guidance expanding what counts as a copy or duplicate of a listed weapon.
Enacted Bans Not Yet in Effect
The following states have signed assault weapon ban legislation that is not yet in effect as of today. Plan interstate travel accordingly.
- Rhode Island —Assault weapons ban signed June 26, 2025, effective July 1, 2026. Possession of newly prohibited weapons must comply by the effective date.
- Virginia —Assault weapons ban signed April 13, 2026, effective July 1, 2026. Existing owners are grandfathered; sale and transfer restrictions apply from the effective date.
Important: Assault weapon definitions are among the most legally complex and frequently litigated areas of firearm law. Definitions differ significantly between states — a configuration legal in one state may be a felony in another. Several state bans are subject to ongoing federal constitutional challenges, and court injunctions can change the enforcement status of a ban with little notice. Always verify the current law in your destination state with an attorney licensed in that state before transporting any semi-automatic firearm across state lines. This page reflects law as understood at the time of last review and does not constitute legal advice.
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