Canada Expands Prohibited Firearms List and Advances Gun Control Measures

The Canadian government has announced an extension to the list of prohibited assault-style firearms, as part of ongoing efforts to regulate gun control. This decision, effective December 5, 2024, includes an amnesty order valid until October 30, 2025, allowing businesses and owners time to comply with the new regulations. The prohibition affects 104 families of firearms, totaling 324 unique makes and models. Despite these changes, over 19,000 non-restricted makes and models remain available for hunting and sport shooting in Canada.

The government plans to introduce further regulatory amendments in Parliament on December 13, 2024. These amendments aim to ensure all firearms are accounted for before entering the Canadian market. Additionally, measures to address gun violence related to gender-based and intimate partner violence are expected by January 2025. New regulations concerning large-capacity magazines are anticipated in March 2025.

The government has also implemented Red Flag laws, allowing courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk. An awareness campaign for these laws is scheduled for the spring. Furthermore, the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program will provide compensation to those affected by the prohibition, with the program's first phase already underway.

These actions are part of a broader strategy to combat gun violence, including investments in border security and law enforcement to tackle firearms smuggling and trafficking.