Justice Department Establishes New Path for Felony Gun Rights Restoration

Why it matters locally: Given West Virginia's strong Second Amendment traditions and high rates of gun ownership, this federal policy change could significantly impact residents with past felony convictions seeking to restore their firearms rights.

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice has established a new procedure for individuals with certain felony convictions to seek the restoration of their federal firearms rights. This program represents the most recent step taken by the Trump administration to modify gun-related restrictions. Under federal law, a felony conviction generally prohibits individuals from possessing firearms. The new pathway allows individuals who meet specific criteria to petition the department for an exemption from this prohibition. The department has outlined the types of convictions and circumstances that would make an individual eligible for consideration under this new process. Officials have not yet detailed the specific application requirements or the timeline for reviewing petitions.