The shootings in Tucson, Ariz., that killed a federal judge, a 9-year-old girl and several others and wounded many more, including an Arizona congresswoman, have brought renewed attention to state and federal firearms laws.
The states have a variety of laws governing who can buy a handgun or rifle, what permits are required, and where firearms can be present. Alaska is one of a few states to have firearms laws that are widely regarded as the least restrictive in the nation.
If you’re thinking of buying or using a handgun or rifle in Alaska, here’s a brief look at the laws of the Last Frontier.
• Alaska has no waiting period for the purchase of a handgun, rifle or shotgun. There is no requirement to register any firearm with the state of Alaska.
• The state of Alaska offers gun owners older than 21 the option to obtain a concealed-carry permit, though Alaska is one of only three states â€" Arizona and Vermont are the others â€" that does not require such a permit. However, 35 other states will recognize an Alaska concealed-carry permit.
• State law requires a person carrying a concealed handgun to immediately notify a peace officer about the firearm when the officer first contacts that person. Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor charge.
• Ten years after completing felony probation, the state no longer bans felons from possessing firearms. However, federal law restricts convicted felons from buying or possessing guns.
• Alaska law does not address high-capacity magazines, such as those used by the alleged Arizona shooter. A federal ban expired in 2004. A handful of states restrict magazines to 10 rounds.
• It is illegal in Alaska to possess a gun in a courthouse. It also is illegal to possess a gun on any school grounds unless a person has obtained the permission of the chief administrative officer of the school or district ahead of time.
• Bar patrons cannot possess a loaded firearm, though there is no restriction on possession for bar owners or employees. It also is against the law to possess a firearm while intoxicated.
___________
Article Source
