Minnesota Governor Proposes Constitutional Amendment to Ban Assault Rifles Amid Legislative Deadlock

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has proposed a constitutional amendment to ban the sale and possession of assault rifles as an alternative way to break the legislative gridlock on gun control. This step would require a majority vote in the legislature to place the amendment on the ballot, followed by voter approval. Walz emphasized that the ban is popular among voters, citing polls showing majority support, though legislative Republicans remain opposed and have not discussed the amendment with him. The proposal comes after stalled negotiations and recent mass shootings, including at Annunciation Catholic Church and School. Critics note that the shooter used multiple types of firearms, raising questions about the effectiveness of banning assault rifles alone. Walz continues to seek a special legislative session but acknowledges the difficulty in advancing gun control measures in the closely divided legislature.