Gun Laws vs. Firearm Mortality

Firearm Mortality Across America

Suicides Per State

Western states have higher suicide rates

Homicides Per State

Southern states have higher homicide rates

Gun Ownership Varies Dramatically by State

States Approach Gun Regulation Differently

Key Relationships Between Variables

States with Fewer Gun Laws Have Different Outcomes

States with Most Gun Laws Have Less Gun Ownership

Not All Gun Laws Are Created Equal

Strong Regional Patterns Emerge

Laws and Ownership Follow Regional Lines

Complex Relationship: What Drives What?

Conclusion

  • Suicide and homicide have opposite relationships with gun laws and ownership

    • Higher gun ownership → more suicides, fewer homicides
    • More gun laws → fewer suicides, more homicides
  • Regional differences are pronounced

  • It’s hard to tie outcomes to particular policies