Federal Lands Lawful Carry Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Yakym, Rudy [R-IN-2]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 16, 2026
Bottom line
This bill expands the legal right for law-abiding citizens to carry firearms onto a broad range of federal lands and facilities, aligning federal policy with state laws in those locations.
What it actually does
This bill amends Section 930 of title 18, United States Code, to create an exception to the federal prohibition on firearm possession in certain federal facilities. It specifically authorizes individuals to possess firearms in designated 'exempted areas' on federal lands and facilities, provided they are not otherwise prohibited by law from such possession and are in compliance with the laws of the state where the area is located. These exempted areas include units managed by agencies like the National Park System, National Forest System, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that are open to visitors.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill upholds Second Amendment rights, ensuring that law-abiding citizens can carry firearms for self-defense when visiting federal public lands and facilities. They contend that current federal prohibitions disarm individuals in areas where they might need to protect themselves, and that this legislation simply ensures consistency between state and federal firearm laws on these public properties.
Opponents contend
Opponents would likely argue that allowing firearms in federal facilities and public lands increases the risk of accidental shootings, gun violence, and conflicts, potentially endangering visitors and federal employees. They might also raise concerns about the unique nature of federal properties and the need for consistent federal safety regulations that prioritize public safety over expanded firearm access.
The bill is exceptionally short and its language is straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly and thoroughly.
Section 2(1) and 2(2) of the bill, amending 18 U.S.C. 930(d) and (g).
Authorizing Firearm Possession in Designated Federal Lands and Facilities
This provision modifies existing federal law (18 U.S.C. 930) which generally prohibits firearms in federal facilities. It creates a specific exception, allowing individuals to possess firearms in certain federal units and facilities (termed 'exempted areas') if they are not legally prohibited from firearm possession and if their possession complies with the laws of the state where the area is located. The 'exempted areas' are defined to include lands and facilities open to visitors that are managed by agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management, National Forest System, National Park System, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that citizens' Second Amendment rights are not infringed upon when they visit federal public lands, allowing them to carry firearms for self-defense, especially in remote areas where law enforcement response times may be slow. They emphasize that it only applies to individuals who are legally permitted to possess firearms under state and federal law, thereby protecting responsible gun owners.
Critics contend
Opponents contend that allowing firearms in these federal spaces could lead to increased risks of violence, accidental shootings, and conflicts, particularly in crowded visitor areas or during disputes. They argue that federal lands should maintain a consistent, higher standard of safety by prohibiting firearms, regardless of varying state laws, to protect all visitors and staff.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tension between individual Second Amendment rights and the desire for self-defense versus concerns about public safety and the potential for increased gun violence in federal public spaces. It also involves a tradeoff between maintaining uniform federal regulations and deferring to diverse state-level firearm laws.