Agency cites Justice Department opinion as basis for revising long-standing firearm shipping restrictions.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The United States Postal Service has proposed a regulatory change that would allow certain handguns to be shipped through the mail, marking a shift from long-standing federal mailing restrictions.
According to a proposed rule set for publication in the Federal Register, the agency plans to update its mailing standards to reflect a legal interpretation issued by the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel. That opinion determined that a federal prohibition on mailing concealable firearms, including handguns, is unconstitutional when applied to weapons protected under the Second Amendment.
Under current regulations, handguns are generally prohibited from being sent through the mail except under limited circumstances. The proposed revision would allow lawful handguns to be shipped under conditions similar to those already in place for rifles and shotguns.
Postal officials said the update would align internal policy with federal legal guidance and was developed in consultation with Justice Department attorneys.
The changes would amend Publication 52, which governs hazardous and restricted mail. If implemented, the revised rules would require firearms to be unloaded, securely packaged, and shipped in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Gun Control Act.
Certain restrictions would remain in place. Firearms classified as illegal, such as machine guns and prohibited modifications, would continue to be barred from mailing. Packages containing firearms would also be subject to existing security measures, including prohibitions on external labeling indicating contents and requirements for tracking and signature confirmation.
The proposal maintains distinctions between federally licensed firearms dealers and nonlicensed individuals. Licensed dealers would continue to operate under established federal guidelines, while nonlicensed senders would face additional conditions, particularly for interstate shipments.
Exceptions for government and law enforcement use would remain unchanged. Authorized personnel, including military members and federal agents, would still be permitted to mail otherwise restricted firearms under specified conditions, such as submitting documentation verifying official use.
The Postal Service said it will accept public comments on the proposal for 30 days following its publication. Officials indicated that feedback should address the clarity and implementation of the revised standards rather than the constitutional interpretation underlying the change.
If adopted, the proposal would represent a significant update to federal mailing policy, potentially expanding lawful firearm transportation options while maintaining existing compliance and safety requirements.
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