Wyoming Leads While Others Restrict: A Blueprint for Defending the Second Amendment

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon (R)

While anti-gun legislation continues to sweep through states like California, New York, and now even places like Minnesota and Virginia, Wyoming is proving something important. They are leading the charge proving that freedom doesn’t have to be rolled back—it can still be expanded. During the 2026 legislative session, Wyoming delivered major wins for the Second Amendment community—even as one high-profile bill was vetoed.

Big Wins in 2026: Rights Expanded, Not Restricted

Three major pro-Second Amendment bills made it to Governor Mark Gordon’s (R) desk this year. While one—an expansion of the Second Amendment Protection Act (SAPA)—was vetoed, two critical bills were signed into law.

First was Wyoming House Bill HB0096 (Restoring Rights to Young Adults). This bill lowers the minimum age for concealed carry permits to 18. It also recognizes that legal adults have the right to defend themselves. At a time when other states are raising age limits and restricting access, Wyoming moved in the opposite direction—trusting its citizens, not limiting them.

The second bill was House Bill HB0098 (Standing Against Red Flag Confiscation). This makes state and local enforcement of red flag gun confiscation orders a crime. It pushes back against one of the most controversial gun control measures in the country.

Red flag laws often allow firearm confiscation without due process, and Wyoming has now taken one of the strongest stances in the nation against them.

Don’t Forget 2025: Ending Gun-Free Zones

We need to remember though that these victories didn’t happen overnight. However, we are seeing Wyoming continuing to expand gun rights. We saw in 2025, Wyoming also repealing most gun-free zones. They restored the right to carry in schools, government buildings, and the Wyoming Capitol.

That’s a direct rejection of the “gun-free zone” model—areas that often leave law-abiding citizens defenseless while doing little to stop criminals.

Wyoming’s Second Amendment Framework Is Among the Strongest in America

Over the last five legislative sessions, Wyoming has built one of the most pro-Second Amendment legal environments in the country. They have set themselves apart from other states.

They have implemented was to hold government accountable by imposing criminal penalties for officials who enforce federal gun control on law-abiding citizens. The state has also continued to fight Red Flag Laws by adding criminal and civil penalties tied to enforcement.

Wyoming strengthened it’s statewide Preemption laws to prevent cities and counties from passing their own patchwork gun control laws. Most importantly, they expanded Carry Rights by implementing a broad repeal of gun-free zones. They have also increased access to lawful carry.

This is what a state looks like when it takes the Second Amendment seriously. Other states and politicians that claim to be pro-2A should take notice and copy it. The best way to defeat federal gun control is by a coalition of states going on the offensive in protecting their citizens rights.

The SAPA Veto: A Reminder There’s Still Work to Do

While there’s a lot to celebrate, Wyoming isn’t finished yet. Governor Gordon’s veto of the updated Second Amendment Protection Act (SAPA) blocked a civil pathway for citizens to sue when their rights are violated. That matters—because rights without enforcement mechanisms are vulnerable.

We here at 2 If By Sea Tactical applaud the efforts of Wyoming in defending the constitution and their citizens rights. We live in the state of Minnesota that is constantly attacking our rights.

This biggest take away from this is showing that even in todays divided times, there is a way forward. Other states should follow Wyoming’s example.  If they do we can build momentum to rolling back many of the unconstitutional laws and regulations that have become a burden to those trying to exercise their rights.

What Comes Next

The fight isn’t over—it’s shifting. With the 2026 Wyoming primaries approaching, the future of these gains depends on electing candidates who will defend and expand these protections. We the voters also must hold elected officials accountable when they fall short.

Here in Minnesota we should take the same approach. Holding those accountable when they fail us, and electing those who defend our rights. The battle to maintaining our rights will never end.  We must be militant and unwavering in our defense of our freedoms. Wyoming is showing the rest of the country what’s possible.

At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we’ll continue to highlight states that are moving freedom forward—not backward. Wyoming is doing something remarkable in this day and age. They are trusting their citizens. They are doing this because they understand just like we do, that the Second Amendment isn’t negotiable.

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.