A closely watched U.S. Supreme Court case from New York earlier this year has had repercussions in other states across the country – including here in Maryland. In the case that made its way to the nation’s high court, a New York law that dated back a century was struck down.
That law had allowed the state to limit who could qualify to get a concealed carry permit to carry a gun in a public space. The Supreme Court ruling took away the restriction that someone had to show a specific need to be armed in public. Although, for a variety of reasons, no changes have yet taken place in that state, the same isn’t true here in Maryland.
Gov. Hogan asserted that Maryland’s law was basically the same as New York’s
Maryland law has a similar requirement that a person must demonstrate that they had a “good and substantial reason” for a Wear and Carry Permit. Gov. Larry Hogan claimed that the law that was struck down was “virtually indistinguishable” from Maryland’s law. Therefore, he ordered Maryland State Police to cease requiring applicants to have a “good and substantial reason” for obtaining this permit.
Of course, there are still numerous other requirements for applicants seeking a Wear and Carry Permit, and there are limits on where concealed weapons, even with a permit, can be carried. Further, with Gov. Hogan leaving and Governor-elect Wes Moore taking office next month, it’s possible that things could change once again.
With gun laws constantly changing throughout the country on a state and federal level, it’s crucial to understand the law around your particular firearm(s) at any given time. If you find yourself facing weapons charges, it’s wise to seek experienced legal guidance to protect your rights.