Keeping guns out of the hands of abusers

Domestic violence homicides account for a major share of Iowa killings each year, and most of the victims are killed by guns. That’s why the Legislature approved a bill last year prohibiting domestic abusers from purchasing and possessing firearms.

A new system is now in place to help implement the law. Through IPONDA (Iowa Protective Order Notification Domestic Abuse), our state’s law enforcement personnel have better access to information about those who are not permitted to purchase or possess guns because of domestic abuse.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety shares this information with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. That means domestic abusers in Iowa will not be able to purchase guns or get permits to carry them, assuming the required background checks are made.

In addition, anyone prohibited by this law from carrying a weapon can be charged with a class “D” felony if they are found in possession of a firearm. This law and the more efficient sharing of information will help keep Iowans safer.