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D.C. Judge Says Concealed Carry Law Unconstitutional

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The Washington Post reported last week that a federal judge found that the District of Columbia’s provision requiring permit applicants to show “good reason” to obtain a permit to carry a firearm is probably unconstitutional.

The D.C. Judge’s Opinion May Change Law Across the Country

U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon issued a statement saying that the District’s gun law violates individuals’ “core right of self-defense” that is granted by the Second Amendment. He disagreed with arguments that the gun law is necessary to protect the public and prevent crime.

According to the Washington Post, the District law states that Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier “may issue” permits to concealed carry applicants who show “good reason to fear injury” or “any other proper reason for carrying a pistol,” such as transporting valuables or money as part of their employment.

The Changes Show the Power of Gun Groups

The Post reported that the gun law was challenged by District resident Matthew Grace and a gun rights group called Pink Pistols. They filed the lawsuit last year, arguing that D.C. violates citizens’ right to bear arms for their own protection, which they argue includes nonspecific or unexpected threats.

On May 17, Judge Leon issued a preliminary injunction that prohibits the city from denying concealed carry permits to D.C. residents who don’t have a specific reason to justify their need to carry a gun, but who otherwise qualify for a permit.

The Future of Gun Law in the Nation’s Capitol

City officials have stated that they plan to appeal the decision. Attorney General Karl A. Racine issued a statement indicating the District’s gun laws are “reasonable and necessary to ensure public safety in a dense urban environment.”

Washington D.C.’s gun law is among the strictest in the nation. However, it is similar to laws in Maryland, New Jersey and New York that have been held as constitutional by federal appeals courts. A challenge to a similar gun law in San Diego is currently pending before 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

This particular ruling shows promise for gun groups and should be the catalyst behind similar cases elsewhere. It’s important to remember that these issues are always under legal review and it’s the citizens’ responsibility to stay informed about recent changes.

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