Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has signed HB 809 into law, abolishing red flag laws statewide and reinforcing the state’s hardline stance in defense of Second Amendment rights.
At a Glance
- Governor Greg Gianforte signed HB 809, banning red flag laws across Montana
- The law prohibits local governments from accepting federal red flag enforcement grants
- Gianforte invited gun manufacturers from Colorado to relocate to Montana
- The bill passed with a Senate vote of 29-19 and reflects Montana’s pro-gun culture
- NRA praised the law as a landmark victory for gun rights advocates
Montana Abolishes Red Flag Laws
Governor Greg Gianforte made headlines this week by signing House Bill 809, effectively banning all red flag laws in the state of Montana. These controversial laws, which allow temporary firearm confiscation from individuals deemed a threat, have faced pushback for violating due process and the Second Amendment.
The new law also bars municipalities from accepting federal funds to implement red flag policies, a clear rejection of any future federal gun control initiatives. As Gianforte stated, HB 809 “[prohibits] the enforcement of any federal law, executive order, rule, or regulation that infringes upon ownership, possession, transfer, or use of any firearm, magazine, or firearm accessory.”
Gianforte Welcomes Gun Manufacturers
Montana is doubling down on its gun-friendly identity. In response to Colorado’s new semiautomatic firearms ban, Gianforte offered a bold invitation to firearms manufacturers. “Colorado is ranked in the top 10 states with the biggest gun industries,” he said. “So, to all gun manufacturers in Colorado, my question is simple: Do you want to move back to America? Montana is open for business.”
Watch a reaction: National Gun Rights celebrates Montana red flag repeal.
— National Association for Gun Rights (@NatlGunRights) August 1, 2024
Opposition to Red Flag Laws
Critics of red flag laws argue they allow firearm seizures based on vague standards and ex parte hearings, suspending constitutional rights without trial. According to the NRA Institute for Legislative Action, these laws “allow governments to seize firearms based on weak and nebulous standards of evidence.”
The NRA praised the passage of HB 809, calling it a “landmark victory” for Montana gun owners. In a statement, the group thanked Representative Caleb Mitchell and all lawmakers who backed the bill, pledging to continue the fight when the legislature reconvenes in 2026.
The Big Sky Gun Sanctuary
Montana already recognizes permitless carry and has enacted multiple laws to restrict federal firearm enforcement. HB 809 now cements its place among the most firearm-friendly states in the U.S. As other states enact stricter regulations, Montana is branding itself as a safe harbor for gun rights—and for the businesses that support them.
