Congress has reintroduced the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which allows people with a state-issued concealed carry license or permit to conceal a handgun in any other state that allows concealed carry, as long as the permit holder follows the laws of that state. It also allows residents of Constitutional carry states the ability to carry in other states that recognize their own residents’ right to concealed carry.

This bill establishes a federal statutory framework to regulate the carry or possession of concealed firearms across state lines.

Specifically, an individual who is eligible to carry a concealed firearm in one state may carry or possess a concealed handgun (other than a machine gun or destructive device) in another state that allows its residents to carry concealed firearms.

It sets forth requirements for lawful concealed carry across state lines. The bill preempts most state and local laws related to concealed carry and establishes a private right of action for a person adversely affected by interference with a concealed-carry right established by this bill.

The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act presents a complex issue balancing the rights of gun owners with concerns about public safety and state sovereignty. Advocates argue it protects Second Amendment rights and ensures consistency, while opponents highlight potential risks to public safety and state autonomy.

Supporters argue the act would create a consistent legal framework for concealed carry across states, reducing confusion for permit holders who travel between states. It upholds the Second Amendment by allowing lawful gun owners to exercise their right to bear arms nationwide. The act would enhance public safety by allowing law-abiding citizens to protect themselves and others regardless of state boundaries. The act would ensure that concealed carry permits are treated similarly to driver's licenses, which are recognized across state lines, promoting fairness and consistency.

Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC): “Our Second Amendment right doesn’t disappear when we cross state lines, and this legislation guarantees that. The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 is a common-sense solution to a problem too many Americans face. It will provide law-abiding citizens the right to conceal carry and travel freely between states without worrying about conflicting state codes or onerous civil suits.”

Former Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) released the results of a GAO study she requested on concealed carry legislation that she claims underscores the dangers of gun reciprocity legislation introduced in the Senate: “The GAO report sheds new light on state policies and practices for issuing and revoking concealed carry permits. The findings confirm my long-standing view that legislation designed to force nearly every state to accept concealed carry permits issued by other states would put the lives of Californians and other Americans at risk. This kind of legislation is dangerous to law enforcement and harmful to the public. The expansion of these laws chips away at gun safety standards and undermines states’ rights."