Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has proposed a new policy that would allow U.S. service members to carry personal firearms on military installations. The proposal, announced via a video statement, cites the Second Amendment and aims to address security concerns following past shootings at military bases.
Hegseth, who assumed the role of Secretary of Defense in January 2025, stated the policy change is intended to empower personnel for self-defense. Current Department of Defense regulations generally prohibit the carrying of privately owned firearms on military property, with exceptions for authorized activities like hunting or storage in base armories.
The proposal has sparked immediate debate. Proponents argue it enhances personal security, while critics, including some military leaders and security experts, express concerns about increased risks of accidental discharges, theft, and escalated conflicts. The policy would require formal review and implementation through the DoD, a process that could take significant time.
As of April 3, 2026, the proposal remains under discussion and has not been enacted. The Pentagon has not released an official implementation timeline or detailed regulations governing the proposed change.
