UPDATE: The Argentine government has just announced a groundbreaking decree that dramatically alters the landscape of civilian firearm ownership. Signed by President Javier Milei on November 11, 2023, this new regulation allows civilians to purchase and possess semiautomatic rifles and other military-derived firearms, reversing a longstanding prohibition.
This urgent measure establishes a new framework through the National Firearms Registry, requiring individuals and shooting clubs to meet specific criteria to acquire these weapons. The decree is set to impact gun ownership in Argentina significantly, allowing access to weapons such as rifles, carbines, and assault-style submachine guns.
Under the new rules, potential buyers must provide proof of ownership and secure storage, submit a sworn declaration, and demonstrate their intent for sporting use. Attorney Laura Tripodi, vice president of the Association of Legitimate Firearms Users of Buenos Aires Province, explained that prior to 1995, such firearms could be purchased with minimal restrictions. However, a ban was implemented following that year, making the acquisition of these weapons highly regulated.
Tripodi emphasized that the new regulation does not open the floodgates to unrestricted access. “The rules are now more transparent, predictable, and clear for everyone,” she stated. Each legitimate user must pass a psychophysical exam, have no criminal record, and show proficiency in shooting. A formal request detailing the type, brand, model, caliber, and serial number of the intended firearm must be submitted to the National Firearms Registry.
The decree aims to ensure responsible ownership and enhance the state’s ability to monitor where firearms are located. Juan Pablo Allan, head of the National Firearms Registry, remarked that the legislation is designed to restore traceability of firearms that had slipped through the legal cracks, asserting that Argentina’s firearms laws are among the most advanced in the region.
Despite the government’s intent to streamline firearm ownership, concerns are on the rise. Gun control organizations, including the Argentine Disarmament Network and INECIP, warn that this move could trigger an increase in gun violence and facilitate the diversion of firearms to the illegal market, a significant source of weapons for organized crime. Co-founder of the Argentine Disarmament Network, Martín Angerosa, criticized the plan, stating that the introduction of semiautomatic rifles poses inherent risks, especially given their capability to fire in rapid bursts.
As this situation develops, it remains crucial for citizens to stay informed about the implications of this decree on public safety and gun control in Argentina. The next steps will involve monitoring how these regulations are implemented and whether they effectively balance the rights of legitimate users with the need for public safety.
This transformative decision by the Argentine government is expected to shape the future of firearm ownership in the country, raising questions about responsibility, safety, and regulation in a society still grappling with the implications of gun violence. Keep an eye on this story as it unfolds, and share your thoughts on the urgent changes in firearm legislation.
