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USPS proposal to allow handgun mail delivery sparks fierce opposition

From The Guardian · (11m ago) English Critical tone

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The U.S. Postal Service is considering a rule change that would permit the mailing of handguns, a move that could reverse a nearly century-old ban.
  • The Justice Department argues the current law, which restricts mailing concealable firearms, is unconstitutional and violates Second Amendment rights.
  • The proposal faces opposition from 24 Democratic attorneys general, who warn it would ease access to firearms for criminals and abusers, particularly in the wake of the 2017 Las Vegas shooting.

The United States Postal Service is contemplating a significant shift in its regulations, potentially allowing individuals to mail handguns for the first time in almost a century. This proposed rule change, spurred by a Justice Department review that deemed the existing 1927 law unconstitutional, argues that the Second Amendment protects the right to ship firearms, even for non-licensed individuals.

However, the proposal has ignited fierce opposition from a coalition of 24 Democratic attorneys general. Led by Nevada's AG Aaron Ford, they argue that such a change would undermine state efforts to curb gun violence and would make it easier for criminals and abusers to obtain firearms. Ford specifically referenced the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting, the deadliest in modern U.S. history, as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence in his state.

Our state has suffered enough. And to suggest we make it easier for criminals and abusers to access firearms is a slap in the face to gun violence survivors and law enforcement.

— Aaron FordNevada's Attorney General expresses strong opposition to the proposed rule change, linking it to the state's experience with gun violence.

The USPS currently allows the mailing of certain long guns, provided they are unloaded and securely packaged. The proposed rule would extend similar protections to handguns, with specific stipulations for shipping within and across state lines. The agency is currently reviewing public comments before finalizing any changes, leaving the future of handgun mailability uncertain.

From a U.S. perspective, this debate touches upon deeply entrenched divisions regarding gun control and Second Amendment rights. While proponents, citing the Justice Department's legal interpretation, emphasize constitutional liberties and the practicalities of firearm transportation, opponents highlight public safety concerns and the potential for increased gun violence. The differing state laws and the federal government's stance create a complex legal and political landscape, with the USPS's decision poised to have significant implications.

precludes it from refusing to ship constitutionally protected firearms to and from law-abiding citizens, even if they are not licensed manufacturers or dealers

— US Justice DepartmentThe Justice Department's argument for revising the USPS regulations based on Second Amendment rights.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Guardian in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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