
House Republicans are spearheading a bill to expand Second Amendment rights for gun owners by introducing nationwide concealed carry reciprocity. The legislation, known as the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (H.R. 38), has the support of more than 120 Republican lawmakers and President Donald Trump, who has committed to signing the measure.
This proposal, introduced by Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), would allow concealed carry permit holders to have their permits recognized in all 50 states. It also includes provisions for residents of Constitutional Carry states, ensuring they can carry firearms in other states while adhering to 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
Supporters argue the bill will eliminate confusion for gun owners who must navigate differing state laws when traveling. Many blue states, including New York and California, have resisted reciprocity agreements and enacted restrictive measures that make concealed carry difficult. Rep. Hudson stressed the importance of the legislation, stating, “Our right to self-defense shouldn’t end at a state line.”
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 the NRA and Gun Owners of America, have praised the effort, calling it a critical step in restoring constitutional freedoms. “This legislation is a victory for law-abiding gun owners and the Second Amendment,” said a spokesperson for GOA.
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
The Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in the Bruen case upheld Americans’ rights to carry firearms for protection, but states with strict gun laws have continued to impose significant limitations. Restrictions on concealed carry locations, including entertainment venues, libraries, and private properties, remain a challenge for permit holders even if reciprocity becomes law.
"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
If enacted, the legislation would impact nearly 22 million concealed carry permit holders across the country, allowing them to travel more freely without fear of breaking state laws. The bill also respects states’ rights by preserving their ability to regulate firearm laws within their borders.