From staff reports

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania State Police released data Friday showing an increase in background checks and firearm purchase denials during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year.

The report is generated through the Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS), which is used by county sheriffs, municipal police chiefs in first-class cities and federally licensed firearms dealers to determine whether individuals are legally eligible to purchase or transfer firearms or obtain a license to carry.

In the first quarter of 2026, the State Police conducted 293,713 PICS background checks, up from 261,878 during the first quarter of 2025. During that same period, 4,543 individuals were denied firearm purchases, compared to 3,811 in the prior year.

Of the denials in 2026, 930 were referred to law enforcement agencies for further review, including 227 referred to the Pennsylvania State Police, 612 referred to municipal law enforcement, and 91 referred to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. In comparison, 1,152 denials were referred to law enforcement in the first quarter of 2025, including 493 to PSP, 547 to municipal agencies, and 112 to the ATF.

Officials also reported that 23 individuals were arrested at the point of purchase due to active warrants in the first quarter of 2026, down from 28 during the same period in 2025.

Officials said when an applicant provides false information on state or federal firearm forms, investigators may initiate a case and refer it to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Under Pennsylvania law, providing false statements or fraudulent identification in connection with firearm transactions may constitute a third-degree felony.

State officials also highlighted broader public safety efforts tied to the Shapiro administration, including expanded investment in Pennsylvania State Police training classes and community-based violence intervention programs.

The administration’s 2026-27 budget proposal includes funding for additional Pennsylvania State Police cadet classes, which officials say would add approximately 380 troopers statewide.

Officials said statewide violent crime and fatal gun violence have declined in recent years, which they attribute in part to coordinated state and local enforcement efforts.