Impact of Permissive State Gun Laws on Pediatric Firearm Mortality Rates

Recent research highlights a concerning link between state firearm laws and pediatric deaths related to guns in the United States. Gun-related injuries have now become the leading cause of death among children aged 0-17. A study conducted by researchers from Mass General Brigham examined how firearm mortality rates among children changed over the 13 years following a significant 2010 Supreme Court decision that extended the Second Amendment's protections to state and local governments.

The findings reveal stark differences based on the restrictiveness of state gun laws. In states with the most permissive firearm regulations, there were approximately 6,029 more pediatric firearm deaths than statistically expected based on demographic trends. Additionally, these states experienced over 1,400 excess deaths related specifically to firearms. Conversely, states with stricter gun laws did not show such increases; in fact, their rates remained stable or decreased.

The study categorized states into three groups: most permissive, permissive, and strict, analyzing data from before (1999-2010) and after (2011-2023) the Supreme Court ruling. The results demonstrate that more permissive laws are associated with higher pediatric firearm mortality. Furthermore, existing disparities, especially among Black youth, persisted or worsened in permissive states, indicating systemic inequities.

Veteran emergency physician Dr. Jeremy Faust emphasized the importance of legislative differences, stating, "We saw over 7,400 more pediatric deaths due to firearms than would have been expected. When compared with other causes of death, such as homicides and suicides not involving firearms, there were no similar fluctuations. This underscores that firearm laws significantly influence child safety."

The researchers advocate for policy efforts and collective action to mitigate this public health crisis. Dr. Onyeka Otugo added, "Addressing pediatric firearm mortality demands coordinated policy change and societal commitment. Effective gun laws are vital for the safety and well-being of children across the nation."

This study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, underscores the impact of firearm legislation on child health and advocates for informed policymaking to save lives.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-thousands-pediatric-firearm-deaths-linked.html