Idaho Voters Pick a State Gun Option
Voters choose among six firearms that could become the state's official gun if lawmakers approve the designation.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Hunting
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Idaho voters are selecting one firearm from six options on the Election Day ballot. If lawmakers approve the designation, Idaho would become the 12th state with an official firearm.
Why it matters
Eleven other states have official firearms, and all of those designations were made in the last 15 years, showing a recent trend. The vote is nonbinding, so the result would not automatically make any gun the state's official firearm.
Idaho's ballot lists six firearms, and the vote is nonbinding, meaning lawmakers must still act before any gun becomes the official state firearm. Utah and Arizona adopted the first official state firearms in 2011, and 11 other states have followed.
The players
Jason Monks
Idaho House Majority Leader who sponsored the bill calling for the state firearm vote.
The details
House Bill 932, sponsored by Idaho House Majority Leader Jason Monks, ties the measure to the nation's 250th anniversary and cites the role firearms played in American and Idaho history. Monks said he hoped the gun vote would help draw more people to the polls.
Timeline
2011: Utah and Arizona became the first states to adopt official firearms.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Idaho voters cast ballots choosing a state firearm.
2027 legislative session: Lawmakers could formally designate the chosen firearm if voters select a clear favorite.
Lifestyle
Idaho's proposed designation follows the 2011 precedent set by Utah and Arizona, which began a trend of states naming official firearms that has added 11 states in the 15 years since. If Idaho proceeds, it would become the 12th state to join that group.
The vote itself does not change any laws or create new obligations for residents. Any formal designation would require separate legislation in a future session before a firearm becomes Idaho's official state gun.
The takeaway
Idaho's vote is nonbinding, so the ballot result will signal voter preference rather than settle the question. Residents interested in the outcome can track the 2027 legislative session for any formal action.
What happens next
If voters select a clear favorite, lawmakers could consider legislation to formally designate it during the 2027 legislative session.
Further reading
Explore more on Hunting for background on firearms and the outdoor traditions tied to them.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Newsweek.
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