HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania State Police reported an increase in firearm purchase denials during the second quarter of 2026, despite a relatively unchanged number of background checks compared with the same period last year.

According to the Pennsylvania Instant Check System (PICS), 239,047 background checks were conducted during the second quarter of 2026, up slightly from 238,003 during the same period in 2025.

State police said 3,833 individuals were denied the purchase or transfer of a firearm, an increase from 3,444 denials during the second quarter of last year.

Of those denials, 905 cases were referred to law enforcement agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution. Referrals included 217 cases to the Pennsylvania State Police, 612 to municipal police departments and 76 to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

State police also reported that 18 individuals with active arrest warrants were taken into custody at the point of purchase during the second quarter, compared with 20 during the same period in 2025.

The Pennsylvania Instant Check System is used by county sheriffs, Philadelphia police and federally licensed firearms dealers to determine whether an individual is legally eligible to purchase or transfer a firearm or obtain a license to carry.

Under Pennsylvania law, knowingly providing false information or identification during the firearm purchase process is a third-degree felony.