Minnesota Governor Walz Issues Executive Orders Targeting Gun Violence
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed executive orders this week aimed at reducing gun violence across the state. The orders follow recent school shooting incidents that prompted state-level action. Gun owners should understand what these orders require and how they may affect daily carry and firearm ownership in Minnesota.
Why It Matters for Gun Owners
Executive orders bypass the legislature and carry the force of law until challenged in court or overturned by a future governor. Walz's orders directly target firearm access and storage, affecting Minnesota gun owners immediately.
The orders focus on several areas: increased background check requirements, extreme risk protection orders (red flag laws), and mandatory safe storage rules. Safe storage mandates require gun owners to store firearms with locks or in secured containers when not in use. Violations could result in misdemeanor charges.
For daily carriers, the orders don't immediately restrict permit-to-carry eligibility or constitutional carry rights. However, they expand the grounds for permit denial and revocation. Mental health evaluations and background check expansions mean more applicants may face delays or denials.
The executive orders also direct state agencies to enforce existing gun laws more aggressively. This means increased scrutiny of firearms dealers, shooting ranges, and private sellers engaging in commercial activity. Gun owners should document any private sales with bill-of-sale paperwork to avoid future liability.
Background
Minnesota has experienced two major school shooting incidents in recent years, driving state-level pressure for gun control measures. Walz campaigned on gun violence prevention and fulfilled that campaign promise with these orders.
The orders don't represent new legislation—the Minnesota legislature hasn't passed comprehensive gun control bills. Instead, Walz directed executive agencies to maximize enforcement of existing statutes and implement new administrative rules within his executive authority.
Safe storage laws already exist in Minnesota for certain situations, but Walz's order expands them. The order requires gun owners to store firearms securely whenever another person could access them. This includes household members, visitors, and even guests.
Extreme risk protection orders allow law enforcement or medical professionals to petition courts for temporary firearm removal orders. These orders last six months to one year, though they can be renewed. Minnesota previously had some ERPOs in place; Walz's orders expand their use.
Background check expansion directs the state to close administrative gaps in the current system. The orders require additional vetting before permit-to-carry issuance. Wait times may increase from current timelines.
Gun owners should note that Minnesota's constitution includes a right-to-bear-arms provision, and the state has no assault weapon bans or magazine restrictions. These orders attempt to work within existing constitutional limits, though litigation will likely test their boundaries.
DownRange Bottom Line
Walz's orders represent the most aggressive state-level gun control action in Minnesota in years. They don't ban specific firearms or magazines, but they increase restrictions on access and storage.
Minnesota gun owners should expect longer permit-to-carry processing times and more detailed background checks. Safe storage enforcement will become a priority for local law enforcement. Daily carriers should maintain documentation of lawful purchases and avoid private sales that lack paper trails.
These orders will face legal challenges. Second Amendment groups have already promised court battles. The outcome remains uncertain, but Minnesota gun owners should prepare for possible enforcement and plan storage solutions now.
Stay informed on permit application changes through your local sheriff's office. Consult a Minnesota firearms attorney if you face permit denial or have questions about safe storage compliance.
