Hennepin County (trfnews.i234.me) – Anti-gun violence groups are voicing frustration after a Minnesota court struck down the state’s ban on binary triggers.
The ruling found the ban unconstitutional because it was included in a larger omnibus bill, not passed as a standalone law.
Gun safety advocates argue this decision was not about the safety risks of binary triggers themselves, but about the way the law was written and approved.
Leaders with Protect Minnesota say they plan to push lawmakers to reintroduce the ban as a separate bill in the next legislative session. They believe the court’s ruling has left the public at greater risk until new legislation is passed.
A binary trigger is a firearm device that allows two shots with one trigger pull – one when pressed and one when released. This makes the weapon nearly as fast as a fully automatic gun.
Gun control groups point to deadly incidents linked to binary triggers. In February 2024, first responders in Burnsville were killed when one was used during a shooting. In July 2023, a gunman in Fargo used the device in an attack that left one officer dead, two others wounded, and a civilian injured.
Critics say these devices make firearms far more dangerous in active shooter situations. Advocates for renewed legislation believe removing binary triggers from Minnesota streets could save lives.
Supporters of the ruling argue that the legislature must follow proper constitutional procedures. They say any new law banning binary triggers should stand on its own to avoid future challenges.
The debate over binary triggers now shifts back to lawmakers, who will likely revisit the issue in the upcoming session.
For more information on binary triggers and firearm laws, see ATF resources.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
