Under the Second Amendment, gun owners have the right to bear arms. They also have certain rights depending on the state they live in. Every state allows concealed carry, which means that you can carry concealed weapons—to some degree. You are typically banned from bringing guns to schools, bars, hospitals and sporting events. If you plan to take your gun to other venues, you typically need a permit to do so, unless you live in one of these eight states: Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, Maine, Kansas, Vermont, Arizona and West Virginia.
Gun laws can be confusing. If you have a permit for concealed carry for one state, it is not transferable to other states. For example, if you received your permit in Florida, it will not be valid in California. If authorities find out that you have a weapon, you could be arrested and charged with a felony. This is common among tourists and others who travel frequently to other states but are unaware of the laws in each state.
Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act
The good news is that you may not have to worry about this fate much longer. The House of Representatives recently passed a bill called the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. Under this law, each state would have to recognize a concealed carry permit from another state. This means that those with concealed carry permits can travel to any of the 50 states without fear of being arrested or punished.
However, the act does not force states to change their existing laws. Each state has its own process for obtaining a concealed carry permit, and some are very stringent. The processes do not change under the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. However, once a person does obtain a permit in one state, that permit is valid in the other 49 states.
Not Law Yet
Keep in mind that the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act has not been enacted into law yet. While President Donald Trump, the National Rifle Association (NRA) and many other Republicans are on board with the law, there is naturally some criticism. After the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas, Americans are—for the first time since 2000—supporting stricter gun laws. Some politicians—such as Gabrielle Giffords, who survived an assassination attempt in 2011—are also blasting the bill. Also against the bill is House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, who claims the Republicans are catering to the whims of the NRA.
Contact an Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney
Many gun owners are unaware that concealed-carry permits are currently not valid in every state, which means that they can face felony charges for having firearms in their possession. This can lead to jail time and a criminal record.
Fortunately, the law may be changing. In the meantime, if you are arrested for carrying a gun, do not hesitate to contact an Orlando criminal defense lawyer. At Moses & Rooth Attorneys at Law, we will aggressively fight to protect your rights. Contact our offices today at (407) 377-0150 to discuss your situation with us and see how we can help.
Jay R. Rooth
Jay is an experienced and dedicated attorney. Whether you need help with a DUI or a more serious felony, Jay is ready to fight for you. Not only is Jay highly regarded by his peers, he’s also strongly recommended by his clients. Jay obtained his Law degree from Barry University Law School. Jay is a active member of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, the Federalist Society, Florida Bar Association, the Orange County Bar Association, the Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.
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