Advancement of H.R. 38: A Step Towards National Concealed Carry Reciprocity
The Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, known as H.R. 38, has made significant progress following an 18-9 vote in the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. This advancement was expected, as the party-line vote showcased the divide, with Democrats opposing the measure.
Overview of H.R. 38
The bill aims to permit concealed carry permit holders, recognized by their home states, to carry their firearms in other states as long as they adhere to local laws. This reflects a similar principle to the recognition of driver’s licenses across state lines, as noted by the Buckeye Firearms Association.
Committee Chair Comment
“Our First Amendment rights do not change from one state to another and our Second Amendment rights should not either,” stated Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH), chair of the Judiciary Committee. “Law-abiding citizens should be able to carry a concealed firearm between states without worrying about conflicting state criminal laws or onerous civil suits.”
Current Landscape of Concealed Carry in the U.S.
The legislation comes at a time when the number of concealed carry permit holders stands at approximately 21.46 million, according to the Crime Prevention Research Center, indicating a slight reduction from previous years due in part to the rise of permitless carry laws. Jordan remarked that many states now operate under the principle of constitutional carry, allowing citizens to bear arms without a permit.
Reactions from Advocacy Groups
The Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms expressed strong support for this legislation, applauding the outcome of the markup hearing. CCRKBA Chairman Alan Gottlieb stressed the importance of self-defense rights not being restricted by state borders, emphasizing the original intent of the Constitution.
“Nobody should leave his or her right of self-defense at the border,” Gottlieb stated. “Law-abiding, licensed citizens do not commit violent crimes.”
Support and Opposition
The bill gains backing from several prominent organizations, including the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners of America. The NRA expressed gratitude to Jim Jordan for his efforts in advancing the legislation, urging quick passage through the House.
Democratic Concerns
During the markup session, Ranking Member Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) raised concerns that H.R. 38 could lead to an increase in violent crime, although specific studies to support these claims were not provided. Despite these assertions, supporters countered that criminals already bypass state laws without permits.
Legislative Path Forward
The prospects of the bill passing in the House look favorable, given the narrow Republican majority of 218-213. If approved, the legislation would face its next challenge in the Senate, where a 53-45 Republican majority currently exists. The bill, previously stalled during the first Trump administration, could see more robust support this time around, particularly with President Donald Trump indicating willingness to sign it into law if it reaches his desk.
Conclusion
As gun owners continue to advocate for their rights, the successful passage of H.R. 38 could mark a significant victory for concealed carry advocates across the nation. The strong support from various factions serves as an indicator of a growing push for uniformity in concealed carry laws among states.
About the Author
Dave Workman is a senior editor at TheGunMag.com and Liberty Park Press, and is an author and firearms instructor with extensive knowledge on Second Amendment rights.
