The debate over gun control in Oregon has reignited as state lawmakers consider a series of new proposals and changes to existing legislation, including the contentious Ballot Measure 114. This voter-approved law, passed in 2022, has been tied up in legal challenges for over two years but is now poised to take effect following a recent ruling from the Oregon Court of Appeals.
Ballot Measure 114 introduces two major components: a ban on the sale or purchase of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition, and a new permitting system that requires individuals to obtain a permit before purchasing a firearm. Although the measure passed by a narrow margin, its enforcement has been on hold due to constitutional challenges. That changed in March 2025, when the Oregon Court of Appeals declared the measure constitutional, overturning a previous circuit court decision. Opponents of the law still have the opportunity to appeal this ruling, but if it stands, the state could soon begin implementing the long-delayed regulations.
In the meantime, the Oregon Legislature is reviewing House Bill 3075, which seeks to modify certain elements of Measure 114 to address public concerns and streamline its enforcement. The proposed bill would raise the initial permit application fee from $65 to $150 and the renewal fee from $50 to $110. It also extends the timeline for local authorities to approve or deny a permit from 30 to 60 days. The legislation allows for parts of the required firearms safety training to be completed online, though applicants would still need to demonstrate safe handling skills in person. Other provisions clarify that some firearms, such as bolt-action rifles and pump-action shotguns, would be exempt from the permit requirement, and it further defines rules around the use of high-capacity magazines that are grandfathered under the new law.
Oregon lawmakers are also considering additional gun-related bills. Senate Bill 429 proposes a mandatory 72-hour waiting period for all firearm purchases, even if a background check is completed in less time. Senate Bill 696 seeks to ban rapid-fire activators—devices that modify firearms to fire more quickly—and Senate Bill 697 aims to prohibit individuals under 21 from possessing semiautomatic rifles or shotguns, with exceptions for law enforcement and military members. In the House, Bill 3076 would require the Oregon Department of Justice to study the feasibility of implementing a state-level licensing program for firearm dealers. In contrast, House Bill 3742 proposes allowing legislators and staff with valid concealed carry permits to bring firearms into the Capitol building, a move that has sparked controversy even among some pro-gun advocates.
These legislative developments come amid growing concern over gun violence in the state. According to a joint study by Oregon Health & Science University and Portland State University, firearm-related deaths in Oregon increased by 40 percent between 2001 and 2023. The state’s gun death rate now stands roughly seven percent higher than the national average.
Supporters of the new laws argue they are a necessary response to these alarming trends, aimed at reducing gun violence and making communities safer. They point to mass shootings and rising suicide rates as reasons for enacting stronger oversight of firearm ownership. On the other hand, critics argue the laws represent a significant infringement on Second Amendment rights. They express concern over increased costs for lawful gun owners, longer waiting periods, and the possibility of confusing or inconsistent enforcement, especially regarding the high-capacity magazine ban.
As the legislative session moves forward, Oregon residents remain sharply divided on the issue. For many, these bills represent a step toward enhanced public safety. For others, they signal overreach by the state government. Regardless of which side of the debate they fall on, Oregonians will be watching closely to see how the courts and the Legislature resolve these complex and far-reaching issues.
