Constitutional Carry
Posted April 1, 2023
So What About Constitutional Carry?
1. Constitutional Carry is a term used to describe a state law that allows individuals to carry firearms without a permit or license, as long as they are legally able to possess firearms.
2. Currently, Constitutional Carry is allowed in 21 states, with the majority of these states enacting the law in the past decade.
3. Supporters of Constitutional Carry argue that the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms and that individuals should not be required to obtain a permit to exercise this right.
4. Critics of Constitutional Carry argue that the lack of permit requirements and background checks could make it easier for dangerous individuals to obtain firearms and increase the risk of gun violence.
5. It is important to note that even in states with Constitutional Carry laws, there are still restrictions on where individuals can carry firearms, such as schools, government buildings, and other prohibited locations.
6. Some states also have a “shall issue” policy, which means that if a person is not prohibited from owning firearms, the state must issue them a permit upon request.
7. Constitutional Carry is a controversial topic in the United States, with strong opinions on both sides of the issue. It is likely to continue to be a topic of debate and legislative action in the coming years.
It's worth noting that each state's Constitutional Carry law is slightly different, and there may be restrictions on where firearms can be carried even in states with Constitutional Carry laws. Additionally, some states may have enacted similar laws after my knowledge cutoff date. The list of states is growing. As of the posted date of this article here are the states with Constitutional Laws.
(April 24, 2023 Update:) It appears that Nebraska will become the 27th state to issue permitless carry also know as Constitutional Carry in that state. Well over half the states have gone permitless.
STATES WITH CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY: 1. Alaska, 2. Arizona, 3. Arkansas, 4. Alabama, 5. Florida, 6. Georgia,7. Idaho, 8. Indiana,9. Iowa, 10. Kansas, 11. Kentucky, 12. Maine, 13. Mississippi, 14. Missouri, 15. Montana, 16. Nebraska, 17. New Hampshire, 18. North Dakota, 19. Ohio, 20. Oklahoma, 21. South Dakota, 22. West Virginia, 23. Wyoming, 24. Tennessee, 25. Texas, 26. Utah, 27. Vermont,
Here are explanations of Constitutional Carry, Concealed Carry, and Open Carry, and how they differ:
1. Constitutional Carry: Also known as permitless carry or unrestricted carry, Constitutional Carry is a law that allows individuals to carry firearms without the need for a permit or license, as long as they are legally able to possess firearms. This means that individuals can carry a concealed or openly carried firearm without having to undergo any background checks, training, or permitting processes.
2. Concealed Carry: This refers to carrying a firearm in a concealed manner, meaning that the firearm is not visible to others. In most states, a permit is required to carry a concealed firearm, and individuals must undergo background checks and sometimes training to obtain this permit. The specific requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit vary by state, but most require applicants to meet certain age, residency, and mental health criteria.
3. Open Carry: This refers to carrying a firearm in plain sight, meaning that the firearm is visible to others. In some states, open carry is legal without a permit, while in others, a permit is required. Open carry laws also vary by state and may have specific restrictions on where firearms can be carried, such as schools or government buildings.
While each of these carry laws differs in terms of permitting requirements and how firearms are carried, they all relate to the ability of individuals to possess and carry firearms in public. Some states may have multiple types of carry laws in place, while others may only have one or none. It's important for individuals to familiarize themselves with the specific laws in their state regarding firearms possession and carrying.
VIDEO REFERENCES: Many of my view points are influenced by other authors and video producers. I want to give them full attribution for their work. I encourage you to watch their videos and subscribe if you like them. You may enjoy watching the below:
USCCA, What Does Constitutional Carry Mean
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCWONNa_9hU
What Constitutional Carry Is, Explained
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H1C_GKlV5o