Argentina Expands Gun Rights for Civilians
Argentinian President Javier Milei has signed a new order aimed at expanding gun rights in the country, allowing civilians to purchase and own semi-automatic weapons for the first time in three decades.
This law, endorsed by Milei along with Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos and Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, expresses regret over a 1995 decree from the late President Carlos Menem. That decree had prohibited civilians from obtaining semi-automatic weapons larger than .22 LRs, including items akin to rifles and carbines.
The recent changes introduce a specialized licensing system for individuals who wish to legally acquire these weapons, managed by the National Control Materials (ANMAC). Prospective buyers are required to demonstrate practical sports use and meet other specified conditions.
The government justified this decision by noting the need to reevaluate firearms regulations after 30 years since the 1995 restrictions were enforced.
In the past three decades, ANMAC has developed strict administrative guidelines that limited the issuance of permits, creating significant barriers. The government indicated that new measures will better balance access to firearms with safety precautions for public security.
Unnamed government sources noted that the earlier restrictions led to numerous unregistered semi-automatic weapons in the country, with many cases still unresolved.
Despite the changes, sources from the government conveyed that they don’t expect a considerable increase in the ownership of semi-automatic firearms. Instead, they hope this will encourage lawful users to regularize their status, making the process less cumbersome.
The intention is to ease the path to lawful ownership, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles. Knowing where firearms are legally owned is essential, according to government statements.
Argentine law mandates that individuals desiring to purchase firearms first qualify as legal firearm users. This involves verifying their identity, address, and absence of a criminal record, alongside passing psychological and physical evaluations.
This new law aligns with the government’s plan to simplify cumbersome registration procedures. Additionally, they aim to digitize the licensing process entirely, which could significantly change how Argentinians approach gun ownership.
In December, Milei had also passed legislation that lowered the age to buy firearms from 21 to 18, resolving what was deemed a legal inconsistency for young adults.
Throughout the presidential campaign, Milei expressed strong intentions to remove restrictions on gun ownership. Since taking office, he has begun addressing the issue of many legal users who have let their firearm licenses lapse due to complex procedures.
A bill to further simplify gun ownership requirements has been introduced in the Argentine Parliament. While it has passed through the House of Representatives, it still awaits Senate approval.
