Amtrak is considering a policy change to permit passengers to bring firearms aboard most of its trains secured in lockboxes, expanding beyond the current restrictions that allow guns only on a limited number of long-distance routes with locked baggage cars. This proposal follows the arrest of a man who traveled by Amtrak with firearms before attempting an attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, raising concerns about rail security.
The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, was arrested after trying to bypass security barricades near the event venue in Washington, D.C., resulting in a brief gunfire exchange with Secret Service agents. Allen was armed with a shotgun and semiautomatic pistol that he transported via Amtrak from California. A Secret Service officer was wounded but survived due to wearing a bullet-resistant vest. Allen’s lawyer stated he has no criminal record and is presumed innocent.
Details of Amtrak’s Proposed Gun Policy Change
Currently, Amtrak passengers are required to declare firearms, which must be unloaded, in a locked hard case, and transported only in checked baggage on select trains equipped with locked baggage cars—mainly some long-distance services. The proposed rule would install lockboxes on trains nationwide, allowing passengers on over 1,500 daily routes to carry firearms securely during transit.
The plan would maintain that firearms remain locked and accessible only by the conductor, but it is unclear how Amtrak would verify passengers’ legal rights to carry guns, especially considering varying local laws and permit requirements across routes and destinations. Unlike airports, Amtrak does not screen passengers or run background checks, highlighting challenges in enforcing such a policy.
Security Concerns and Responses
Gun safety advocates warn that expanding firearm access on trains undermines security, especially after the recent attempted attack linked to an Amtrak trip. John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, criticized the proposal as increasing risks to public safety.
Security experts suggest enhancing passenger screening and data collection to help prevent firearms from being brought aboard illicitly, although comprehensive screening at train stations presents logistical challenges and high costs compared to airport security. Rail unions have called for stronger protections for workers following previous violent incidents but noted that rail security measures remain limited.
Background
Since 2010, when Congress required Amtrak to allow firearms in checked baggage, the railway has barred weapons on most trains but has not instituted thorough passenger screening. Rail travel generally faces lower security visibility compared to aviation, and many stations lack staff or security checks, making enforcement difficult.
Amtrak’s reassessment of its firearms policy comes amid broader debates on balancing gun rights, passenger safety, and practical security measures in U.S. public transportation.
Sources
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