At Least 16 States Enact Laws Restricting 3D-Printed Firearms

Lawmakers in at least 16 states have enacted laws restricting the possession and manufacture of firearms made without serial numbers, often called ghost guns, according to reporting by Stateline. Seven states added major legislation this year. The measures target weapons produced or modified using 3D printers.

Colorado, New Jersey, Maine, New York, Virginia and Washington passed restrictions in 2026. California advanced a bill requiring 3D printer manufacturers to install technology that would prevent the devices from printing firearms. New York added a similar requirement to its state budget that takes effect by mid-June.

Maine passed a bill in January requiring serial numbers on all firearms, including those made with 3D printers. New Jersey enacted a measure requiring residents to hold a firearms license to possess instructions or blueprints for printing such weapons.

Colorado and Virginia also passed laws against weapons without serial numbers. Washington approved restrictions on possession of serial-free weapons along with limits on digital blueprints and manufacturing devices. A Minnesota package of restrictions did not pass the legislature in March.

Several states with new rules now face constitutional lawsuits. In February, a three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit upheld a lower court ruling siding with New Jersey against Texas-based Defense Distributed. The decision affirmed a cease-and-desist order barring the company from distributing gun-printing blueprints to unlicensed individuals.

Defense Distributed’s legal team is seeking further review and plans to petition the Supreme Court if unsuccessful, according to the Association of New Jersey Rifle and Pistol Clubs.