State Law Background

Among other things, Kansas requires certain mentally ill individuals to be reported to the federal database used for firearm purchaser background checks.

Kansas law does not, however:

State of Gun Violence Factsheet

• Require a background check prior to the transfer of a firearm between unlicensed individuals;
• Require firearms dealers to obtain a state license;
• Regulate the transfer or possession of assault weapons, 50 caliber rifles, or large capacity ammunition magazines;
• Require gun owners to obtain a license, register their firearms, or report lost or stolen firearms;
• Impose a waiting period prior to purchase of a firearm;
• Limit the number of firearms that may be purchased at one time;
• Regulate unsafe handguns (“junk guns” or “Saturday night specials”);
• Significantly regulate ammunition;
• Allow local governments to regulate firearms; or
• Require any permit for adults 21 and older to carry a concealed handgun in public.

In 2017, Kansas had the 17th highest gun death rate among the states. Kansas also supplied crime guns to other states at the 20th highest rate among the states. However, Kansas also imports a substantial number of guns from other states. In 2017, Kansas imported crime guns at the eighth highest rate among the states.

Kansas Firearms Laws

For details about specific firearms laws in Kansas, choose a topic below, or see all of the firearms laws in this state.