
House Republicans, with backing from President Donald Trump, are advancing a bill to ensure nationwide recognition of concealed carry permits. The Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (H.R. 38), introduced by Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), has drawn support from over 120 GOP lawmakers and aims to simplify gun laws for Americans traveling across state lines.
The legislation would require all states to recognize concealed carry permits issued elsewhere, similar to the way driver’s licenses are accepted nationwide. Residents of Constitutional Carry states would also be covered, allowing them to legally carry in other states while following local regulations.
🚨 BREAKING: @RepRichHudson has introduced the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act to ensure our Second Amendment rights don’t end at a state line.
➡️ https://t.co/dKQLOKgOLz pic.twitter.com/IWyOz1smlv
— NRA (@NRA) January 8, 2025
Rep. Hudson highlighted the importance of protecting Americans’ constitutional rights. “This commonsense bill ensures that law-abiding citizens don’t lose their Second Amendment protections just because they cross a state border,” he said.
Why can I drive across state lines with my Texas driver’s license, but my Second Amendment rights get left at the border? It’s time for that to change. Thanks to Rep. Richard Hudson’s **Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (H.R. 38)**, we’re seeing real momentum toward… pic.twitter.com/K5pu82whgE
— Colion Noir (@MrColionNoir) January 28, 2025
Gun rights organizations, including Gun Owners of America and the NRA, have praised the proposal as a significant step forward for firearm owners. “This is a long-overdue victory for law-abiding Americans,” said a spokesperson for Gun Owners of America, emphasizing that the bill would address years of confusing and restrictive state regulations.
Donald Trump announces that he'll sign national concealed carry reciprocity! HELL YEAH! pic.twitter.com/RUJffZmu9n
— American Firearms Association (@2A_Freedom) November 10, 2024
Even after the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Bruen case, which affirmed the right to carry firearms for self-defense, states like New York and California have maintained strict rules limiting where concealed carry is allowed. These restrictions often include broad areas such as restaurants, entertainment venues, and even private property without explicit consent.
"Your right to carry shouldn't end at state borders." – GOA's Senior VP, @erichmpratt
Have you called your Representative and told them to support HR 38, Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act yet? (202) 224-3121☎️ pic.twitter.com/rcDv5lrU0H
— Gun Owners of America (@GunOwners) January 13, 2025
The legislation does not override individual state gun laws but ensures that concealed carry permits are valid nationwide. If enacted, it would affect nearly 22 million permit holders, making it easier for them to travel without legal concerns.