St. Paul became the first city in Minnesota to pass an assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines ban, with gun rights groups filing a lawsuit in response.
“Saint Paul stands ready to act on day one when the state lifts preemption,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “This ordinance represents a collective effort by local leaders taking a long-overdue step to protect our children, families, and neighbors. Too many have suffered the unimaginable while others debated. It’s time for state leaders to meet us in this moment of urgency and safeguard the future our children deserve.”
The ordinance can’t take effect until state preemption laws are lifted; however, the city highlights five provisions:
- Ban the possession of assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, and binary triggers within city limits
- Prohibit untraceable “ghost guns” by requiring all firearms to have serial numbers
- Restrict firearms in sensitive public spaces, such as parks, libraries, recreation centers, and city buildings
- Require clear signage in public facilities to inform residents of restrictions and encourage compliance
- Define enforcement authority and penalties — to take effect only if the state repeals or amends preemption law
The ordinance would exempt active-duty law enforcement and military personnel, licensed federal firearms curators and transporting firearms through the city, as long as the guns are unloaded, locked and safely stored…