What’s happening?
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan lifted the “good and substantial reason” rule for obtaining gun permits in Maryland, Kristen Mosbrucker reports for WYPR. Now, adults can apply for a gun permit without providing a justifiable reason to own a firearm. The announcement comes after the Supreme Court overturned a similar provision in New York.
How are lawmakers reacting to this decision?
The directive highlighted opposing views between the state’s Republican governor and the Democratic legislature. While Gov. Hogan characterized the move as reaffirming his support for “the right of law-abiding citizens to own and carry firearms” with some common-sense safety measures, State Senate President Bill Ferguson voiced concerns.
“We are facing a crisis where unfettered access to firearms makes it dangerous to exercise our fundamental freedoms like speech, worship and education,” Ferguson said in a statement. He also added that Democrats plan to introduce legislation during the next session that would include “reasonable restrictions” on guns in the state.
Anything else I should know?
To obtain a “Wear and Carry Permit” in Maryland, adults must still submit fingerprints and complete a state police approved firearms safety training course. Adults cannot obtain permits if they have been convicted of a felony or other crime related to controlled substances or if they have been shown to illustrate a “propensity for violence,” according to the legislation.
You can read more here.
