WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) has joined Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) and a group of Republican colleagues to introduce the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, aiming to strengthen Second Amendment protections for law-abiding gun owners.
The proposed legislation would enable individuals with concealed carry privileges in their home state to exercise those rights in any other state that permits concealed carry, provided they adhere to the respective state’s laws.
“The Second Amendment helps protect all of our constitutional rights,” Kennedy said. “This bill would affirm Americans’ fundamental liberties while respecting every state’s right to make their own laws.”
Cornyn echoed Kennedy’s sentiment, adding, “This legislation would reduce unnecessary burdens for law-abiding citizens and allow them to carry a concealed firearm in every state that permits it. Gun owners should not have their rights violated when crossing state lines.”
Key Features of the Bill:
- Reciprocity for Concealed Carry: Treats state-issued concealed carry permits like driver’s licenses, allowing individuals to exercise their concealed carry rights across state lines while abiding by the laws of the respective state.
- State Law Compliance: Requires permit holders to adhere to each state’s concealed carry regulations.
Endorsements:
The bill has garnered support from key advocacy groups, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the National Rifle Association, and Gun Owners of America.
Broad Republican Support:
A significant number of Republican senators have cosponsored the legislation, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and more than 40 others, demonstrating robust GOP backing.
This bill reflects a growing push among lawmakers to ensure consistent Second Amendment protections across state lines while balancing respect for state sovereignty.
For more information, visit Senator Kennedy’s website.