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State Gun Policy and Cross-State Externalities: Evidence from Crime Gun Tracing

Author

Listed:
  • Brian Knight

Abstract

This paper provides a theoretical and empirical analysis of crossstate externalities associated with gun regulations that impact gun trafficking. Using tracing data, which identify the source state for crime guns recovered in destination states, we find that firearms tend to flow from states with weak laws to states with strict laws, satisfying a key theoretical condition for the existence of externalities. We also find that gun flows are more significant between nearby states, suggesting that externalities are spatial in nature. Finally, we present evidence that criminal possession of guns is higher in states exposed to weak laws in nearby states.

Suggested Citation

  • Brian Knight, 2013. "State Gun Policy and Cross-State Externalities: Evidence from Crime Gun Tracing," American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, American Economic Association, vol. 5(4), pages 200-229, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejpol:v:5:y:2013:i:4:p:200-229
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/pol.5.4.200
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    JEL classification:

    • H76 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - Other Expenditure Categories
    • K14 - Law and Economics - - Basic Areas of Law - - - Criminal Law
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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    1. State Gun Policy and Cross-State Externalities: Evidence from Crime Gun Tracing (American Economic Journal: Economic Policy 2013) in ReplicationWiki

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