USPS considers allowing people to ship handguns through the mail

Added: 2026-05-17

[00:00:00]The United States Postal Service is considering a major rule change allowing anyone to send a handgun through the mail. In 1927, Congress passed a law barring the USPS from mailing concealable firearms unless they were from licensed dealers. But, in January, the Department of Justice revisited the almost 100-year-old law calling it unconstitutional and arguing that it violated the Second Amendment.

[00:00:22]The Department of Justice argues the patchwork of state laws around guns makes it difficult to take them across state lines for lawful purposes like target shooting, hunting, and self-defense. It's said that in many cases, people aren't able to travel with a firearm making mail the only viable method of transportation. USPS currently allows some firearms like long-barreled rifles and shotguns to be mailed.

[00:00:43]However, they must be unloaded and securely packaged. Firearm advocacy groups have applauded the proposed change while gun safety organizations have expressed concern. Democratic attorney generals in two dozen states sent a letter this week in opposition.

[00:00:57]The USPS said in a statement that it's reviewing public comments before making final changes.