In a move drawing strong support from gun rights advocates and military veterans alike, a growing number of lawmakers are pushing federal legislation to restore Second Amendment rights to veterans previously disqualified from gun ownership due to non-violent mental health evaluations.
Background
Currently, thousands of veterans are barred from owning firearms because the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reported them to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) after appointing fiduciaries to manage their benefits. While meant as a safeguard, critics say it’s an unconstitutional overreach that treats honorably discharged service members as criminals without due process.
Legislative Push
The “Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act,” reintroduced in Congress this session, would prevent the VA from reporting veterans to the NICS without a judicial ruling that they are a danger to themselves or others. Proponents argue the bill is essential for restoring the rights of those who served their country—and deserve the full protection of the Constitution.
“Serving in the military shouldn’t mean surrendering your constitutional rights,” said Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), one of the bill’s most vocal champions. “This legislation ensures that veterans are treated with dignity—not as threats.”
Support from Advocacy Groups
The National Rifle Association (NRA), Gun Owners of America, and various veterans’ organizations have rallied behind the bill, framing it as both a civil rights issue and a step toward correcting a long-standing injustice.
“The VA has become one of the largest sources of Second Amendment disqualifications without due process,” said Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of GOA. “We’re proud to see Congress standing up for those who stood up for us.”
Implications
If passed, the bill could restore firearm ownership rights to over 250,000 veterans currently flagged by the VA. Advocates also see this as a stepping stone toward broader reforms ensuring that no American loses their rights without a fair legal hearing.
Conclusion
This legislation marks a crucial moment in the fight to protect Second Amendment rights—especially for those who have fought to defend them. As bipartisan support grows, so does the hope that justice will be restored for the nation’s veterans.
