DOJ Targets Minnesota's 30-Day Handgun Waiting Period Next
The Department of Justice has issued a formal demand that Minnesota repeal its 30-day waiting period on handgun and certain rifle sales, signaling an imminent lawsuit against Gov. Tim Walz and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The warning came hours after DOJ filed suit challenging San Jose, California's $1,600 concealed carry permitting fee as unconstitutional. Minnesota now faces the same federal legal pressure over regulations that delay lawful firearm purchases for a month.
Key Details
- DOJ has not yet filed the lawsuit but has provided notice demanding the state change course on its handgun and rifle sales restrictions
- The action follows DOJ's successful track record suing over carry permit fees and waiting period laws post-Bruen
- Minnesota's 30-day waiting period applies to handgun purchases and select rifle categories
- Both Minneapolis and St. Paul are named in the demand alongside the governor
Why It Matters for Gun Owners
Minnesota shooters understand the frustration: a month-long delay between purchase and legal possession creates practical problems for self-defense, sporting use, and lawful collection. The DOJ's aggressive posture signals that waiting periods face heightened legal vulnerability under the Bruen framework, which demands historical grounding for gun restrictions. If DOJ prevails—and its track record suggests strong odds—Minnesota residents can legally take possession of handguns and covered rifles within days rather than weeks. This affects every concealed carrier, home defense buyer, and competitive shooter in the state. The mayors' inclusion suggests federal pressure on local enforcement as well.
DownRange Analysis
Bruen has gutted waiting period defenses. No historical tradition supports 30-day delays on law-abiding purchases; early 2A America sold firearms across counters. Minnesota's law cannot clear strict scrutiny. DOJ's dual-front assault on San Jose and Minnesota reflects a coordinated strategy: the agency is methodically targeting the most vulnerable restrictions state-by-state. Gun owners should expect this playbook to hit other blue states with similar delay requirements. The practical win here matters more than the legal principle—faster access to lawful tools. Minnesota should brace for litigation within months.
