Gun Sales: How New Jersey Compares To The Rest of The U.S.
Gun Sales and Ownership in New Jersey
In the discourse of gun control, it is crucial to investigate the distribution of gun sales and ownership across the United States. Notable variations are identifiable, particularly with states like New Jersey exhibiting significantly lower rates compared to others. In 2023, only about 175,711 guns were sold in New Jersey, equating to a rate of 253 guns sold per 10,000 residents, the third-lowest in the entire country.
Gun Ownership Statistics in New Jersey
Fewer gun sales translate to a reduced rate of gun ownership as well. It is reported that only about 20 percent of the New Jersey population owns guns, significantly lower than the national average which hovers between 30 to 40 percent, according to a study by Rutgers University’s gun violence and research center. Even upon considering more conservative estimates, like the Datapandas database that proposes a gun ownership rate of around 14.7 percent in New Jersey, the pattern of fewer firearms per capita holds.
New Jersey’s Gun Control Laws: Stricter Regulations and Procedures
Could the lower rates of gun sales and ownership be a result of New Jersey’s stringent gun control laws? Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver claims that it is New Jersey’s “common sense gun safety laws that work” that could stop “the vicious cycle of mass shootings and everyday gun violence.” Indeed, the state ranks seventh in the country for gun law strength, according to non-profit organization Everytown for gun safety.
The rigorous process for firearm ownership in New Jersey possibly contributes to this. To purchase a handgun, residents must apply for a permit, which includes undergoing a criminal history records check. Notably, the Garden State is one of only 20 states that require a background check for every gun purchase. Additionally, certain transactions are only permissible at state-licensed retail firearms dealers.
Stern Penalties for Unlawful Possession of a Gun in New Jersey
In line with stringent laws for access, New Jersey imposes some of the harshest penalties in the U.S. for unlawful possession of firearms, potentially deterring potential buyers. The consequences consist of charges for a second-degree crime, along with a hefty five to ten-year prison sentence.
New Jersey’s Attempts to Further Gun Control
New Jersey’s stance on gun control did not stop at their strict laws and penalties. Officials such as Gov. Phil Murphy have been proactive in reinforcing them. A significant political push was the proposed restriction on concealed carry guns, which provoked legal challenges in federal court. The same commitment could be evidenced by endeavors to ban firearms like the AR-15.
The Case of “Ghost Guns” in New Jersey
The state’s determination to combat gun violence extends to curbing the rise of ‘ghost guns,’ firearms created using 3D printing that possess no traceable serial number. Recommendations have been made to the New Jersey lawmakers to ban the possession of such 3D printing plans.
The Decline of Gun Violence in New Jersey
So far, New Jersey seems to have experienced some success with these measures. Data from the state police shows that New Jersey recorded a record low number of shootings in 2023. Gun violence led to a total of 924 victims, 13 percent fewer than the previous year, achieving the lowest figure since the collecting of such data started in 2009.
Is New Jersey’s experience indicative that stricter gun control measures lead to fewer shootings? Further studies and time will tell. What stands evident is that its approach has led to fewer guns circulating among its residents and potentially fewer opportunities for gun-related crimes.
Originally Post From https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/new-jersey/2024/12/28/nj-gun-sales-ownership-data/76664023007/
