Minnesota Lawmakers Advance HF 3433 & SF 3654: What a Semi-Auto Rifle Ban Would Mean

The legislative session is now in full swing in St. Paul, MN and we are already seeng the DFL push anti-gun legislation.  This comes as no surprise as Gov. Walz has been pushing for stricter gun laws since arriving in office all the way back in 2019.  Minnesota lawmakers have introduced HF 3433 and SF 3654—companion bills that would ban the sale and transfer of many commonly owned semi-automatic rifles and standard capacity magazines in the state.

According to analysis and alerts issued by the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, these proposals represent one of the most sweeping firearm restrictions considered in Minnesota in recent years.  This would impose a California flavor “Assault Weapons Ban” on gun owners in Minnesota.  However, it does expand the definition of this so called “Assault Weapons” to include nearly every semi-auto rifle that takes a detachable magazine. We here at 2 If By Sea Tactical, believe it’s critical that gun owners understand exactly what is being proposed—and what’s at stake.

What HF 3433 & SF 3654 Propose

While bill language can evolve through amendments, current summaries indicate the legislation would:

• Ban the sale and future transfer of many semi-automatic rifles commonly owned for lawful purposes.

• Restrict magazines over a certain capacity (10 Rounds).

• Potentially create criminal liability for otherwise lawful possession depending on compliance requirements.

• Expand regulatory authority around firearm features rather than criminal misuse.

Like similar proposals in other states, the legislation focuses on firearm characteristics—often labeled under the politically charged term “assault weapons”—rather than on demonstrated patterns of criminal misuse.

Semi-automatic rifles are among the most commonly owned firearms in the United States. They are used for all sorts of lawful purposes including, home defense, recreational shooting, competitive shooting, hunting, more.  These bills, if they become law, would criminalize millions of lawful gun owners in the state of Minnesota.  It would also drive gun stores, like ourselves, out of business as these items represent a bulk of what we sell.

Under the Supreme Court’s decision in District of Columbia v. Heller, firearms “in common use” for lawful purposes receive constitutional protection. More recently, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen reaffirmed that firearm regulations must be consistent with the Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation.

There is no historical tradition in 1791—or 1868—of banning commonly owned arms based on cosmetic features or magazine capacity limits. That constitutional tension is why these bans are being challenged in courts across the country.

Minnesota is not alone. As we recently covered, lawmakers in Virginia are pushing similar sweeping restrictions, including magazine bans and so-called “assault weapons” prohibitions. Meanwhile, other states have moved in the opposite direction. In New Mexico, a proposed semi-auto ban recently failed to advance after strong public opposition and legislative resistance.

That defeat demonstrates an important point, public testimony, organized advocacy, and voter engagement matter. When lawmakers realize the political and constitutional costs are too high, proposals stall.

What It Would Mean for Minnesota Gun Owners

If HF 3433 & SF 3654 were enacted:

• Law-abiding owners could face restrictions on future purchases.

• Private transfers could become legally complex or prohibited.

• Retailers and ranges would operate under new compliance burdens.

• Uncertainty would increase for families simply trying to lawfully exercise their Second Amendment rights.

History shows that once bans are enacted, they rarely shrink. They tend to expand—whether through feature redefinitions, registration schemes, or enforcement reinterpretations.

We have said it before, what starts in one state spreads to another. Policy trends travel fast. Just as New Mexico gun owners mobilized successfully, and just as Virginians are currently fighting sweeping proposals, Minnesotans must remain informed and engaged.

This isn’t about partisanship. It’s about protecting commonly owned and constitutionally protected firearms that millions of Americans responsibly use every day. 2 If By Sea Tactical exists to serve the lawful gun community of Southern Minnesota—regardless of background, profession, or walk of life.

We will continue monitoring HF 3433 & SF 3654 closely.  If there are any updates as hearings and votes develop we will report on them.  As always we encourage responsible civic engagement and supporting those who fight for your rights like the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus.  2 If By Sea will continue to provide a space where gun owners can stay informed and prepared.

The Second Amendment debate is not slowing down. It is intensifying across the country. Stay vigilant. Stay engaged. The 2A landscape continues to evolve all across the country.  Whether it is through Supreme Court Cases, states suing to restrict gun rights, or states expanding gun rights 2 If By Sea is here to keep you informed of all of it.

Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world.  As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.