Trump Administration Proposes Removing Safeguards for Handgun Mailing—CGP Opposes Without Stronger Licensing Requirements
A proposed rule would allow handguns to be mailed nationwide. CGP supports Second Amendment rights paired with evidence-based licensing to reduce suicide and trafficking.
May 8, 2026 · Source: The Hill
What Happened
The Trump administration has filed a proposed rule that would permit the U.S. Postal Service to mail handguns—including pistols and revolvers—to recipients across the country, applying the same regulatory framework currently used for long-barreled rifles and shotguns. Currently, USPS prohibits mailing handguns entirely. The proposal would represent a significant expansion of mail-based firearm shipping.
Read the original reporting at The Hill.
Why This Matters
This policy change intersects critical public health and constitutional concerns. Handguns are used in the majority of gun homicides and suicides in the United States. Expanding mail-based access without enhanced safeguards could increase trafficking, straw purchases, and access by individuals at high risk—including the 17.5 veterans who die by suicide daily, 61% of whom are not receiving VA care. The rule also raises questions about verification and screening mechanisms at the point of delivery.
The CGP Position
The Common Good Party affirms that the Second Amendment is real—and so is the evidence that licensing saves lives. We do not oppose lawful firearm ownership or transport. However, we support evidence-based licensing requirements that demonstrably reduce suicide, homicide, and trafficking while respecting constitutional rights.
CGP policy emphasizes that:
- Licensing requirements work. States with universal permit-to-purchase laws show significantly lower firearm suicide and homicide rates.
- Mail-based systems require verification. Unlike licensed dealers who conduct background checks and verify identity in person, mail delivery systems lack these safeguards by design.
- Vulnerable populations need protection. Veterans at suicide risk and other high-vulnerability groups benefit from waiting periods and screening mechanisms that mail-based systems cannot provide.
A licensing-based approach would allow lawful owners to receive firearms through mail while ensuring that purchases are documented, traceable, and screened for eligibility.