Arizona’s 2025 legislative session put several high-profile gun proposals on center stage, most notably a move to decriminalize firearm suppressors, tighten firearms preemption against local ordinances, and allow concealed carry on public college campuses. All three gun bills cleared the Legislature but were ultimately vetoed by Gov. Katie Hobbs in May 2025. Here’s what each bill tried to do, where things landed, and what to watch next.
Quick background: Arizona gun law & preemption
Arizona’s firearms “preemption” law (A.R.S. § 13-3108) aims to keep gun rules uniform statewide by blocking cities and counties from adopting stricter local ordinances. In 2025, lawmakers pursued stronger enforcement teeth and civil penalties for local officials who knowingly violate preemption, arguing that some jurisdictions still pushed the limits. The enforcement push became SB 1705.
The big three bills
SB 1014: Suppressors (silencers)
SB 1014 would have removed “muffling devices” from Arizona’s prohibited-weapons list, effectively decriminalizing suppressors under state law. Supporters framed this as a hearing-protection and state-sovereignty issue; critics warned about public-safety risks. The Legislature sent SB 1014 to Gov. Hobbs, who vetoed it on May 12, 2025; her official letter cited safety concerns.
How it interacts with federal law: Even if Arizona decriminalized suppressors, federal NFA requirements (tax stamp, background checks, registration) would still apply unless separately limited. One advocacy analysis emphasized that Arizona’s 2021 “Firearm Freedom” law could restrict state/local help in enforcing federal suppressor rules, but the governor’s veto kept the status quo.
Tenth Amendment Center Blog
SB 1705: Firearms preemption; civil penalty
SB 1705 sought to strengthen preemption by authorizing civil penalties against public officials who knowingly adopt or enforce local gun rules that conflict with state law. It passed both chambers but was vetoed on May 2, 2025; the governor’s veto letter objected to punishing local officials and raised policy concerns.
SB 1020: Campus carry
SB 1020 would have prohibited governing boards of universities, colleges, and community colleges from banning concealed carry by permit holders and protected the storage/transport of firearms in locked vehicles on campus. It passed the House on May 1, 2025, reached the governor on May 6, and was vetoed on May 12, 2025.
What the vetoes mean right now
- Suppressors: Remain on Arizona’s prohibited-weapons list under state law; possessing an unregistered suppressor continues to be illegal under federal law.
- Preemption enforcement: Arizona still preempts stricter local gun ordinances, but SB 1705’s proposed new civil penalties did not take effect.
- Campus carry: Existing campus policies that restrict concealed carry remain in place.
Political and legal context
The 2025 vetoes continue a broader pattern in which a Democratic governor and a Republican-controlled Legislature clash over firearm policy. News coverage throughout spring 2025 documented multiple veto rounds, including on gun-related measures, underscoring the likelihood that similar proposals could return in future sessions.
What to watch next
- Reintroductions in 2026: Sponsors may refile suppressor, preemption-enforcement, and campus-carry measures with modified language.
- Litigation & local disputes: Without SB 1705’s added penalties, disputes over local ordinances may continue to be resolved via existing state law and courts.
- Public-safety data: Expect renewed debate over evidence around suppressor misuse and campus safety as advocates prepare new drafts.
Gun Bills FAQ
Are suppressors legal in Arizona after 2025?
No change. SB 1014 was vetoed on May 12, 2025, so suppressors remain prohibited under state law; federal NFA rules still apply.
Can cities still pass their own gun rules?
Arizona preemption still blocks stricter local ordinances, but SB 1705’s new civil penalties didn’t become law due to the May 2 veto.
Can I carry concealed on a public college campus now?
Not generally. SB 1020, which would have limited campus bans, was vetoed on May 12, 2025. Existing campus restrictions remain.
Where can I read the official documents?
The Arizona Legislature posts bill texts and governor’s letters online; see the PDFs for SB 1014 and SB 1705 and the status page for SB 1020.
As Arizona’s gun laws evolve, having reliable, knowledgeable support is more important than ever. At C2 Tactical, our expert instructors and staff stay on top of legislative changes so you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning, we’re here to help you understand your rights, the local and state landscape, and how those changes may affect your training, firearm ownership, and use. Stop by one of our Tempe or Scottsdale locations or reach out online for a consultation. Let us partner with you to stay safe, stay informed, and shoot with confidence.
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