State's Right vs. Individual Rights

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

The threads on abortion, the death penalty and most recently interracial relationships have really gone off well (with the exception of all of those entries that Buckee deleted before I could read them!). In that same spirit, what do ya’ll think about the issue of state’s rights and concealed carry? Should other states be required to recognize my license? There is a beginning grass-roots movement to institute a nationwide reciprocity agreement that would require all states to recognize and honor any state’s licenses, even in those states where owning a handgun is virtually impossible. I’m sure that there would have to be some minimum standards established or perhaps even a national concealed carry license. What do you think – good idea or bad idea?

I’m licensed to carry a concealed handgun in Texas by our state police. The certification consists of several hours of classroom instruction followed by a written test over that material. Then you must pass a proficiency test at the range by demonstrating proper safety skills and by shooting a minimum score in a live fire exercise. If you want to carry a semi-auto handgun, then you must qualify with a semi-auto. Currently my Texas license is also recognized in Colorado, Montana, Georgia, Mississippi, Utah, Idaho, North Carolina, Wyoming, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, Arizona, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Arkansas. That’s 16 (counting Texas) out of 50 states. Do those other 34 states and the District of Columbia have the authority to tell me that I must relinquish my right to self defense if I travel to or through their state? Something tells me that I might have more of a need for protection when visiting New York, Chicago or Los Angeles than I would in Missoula, Boise or Laramie.

I’ve always been a big “state’s rights” type of person, but in this case I believe that if its done properly, a national right to carry law would be the best solution. My reasoning is that there are some rights that should be universal, regardless of what some state legislature or governor may say, and the right of self defense is one of those!

[fisherguy]

Nope, each state has its own laws on the issue. If you are licenced, you should be able to carry in any state with concealed carry laws. In those without the concealed carry laws you should not be able to. Otherwise what is the point in allowing states to make their own laws if it will only apply to some people?

[carbonhunter]

I didnt know you had to be a citizen to carry here in Ohio? I dont see a issue with it, all though it would depend on the person. I guess id expect more rigerous testing for the said individuals..............Do you trust Micheal Moores bodyguards to carry over borders(or on a plane???..LOL)

I think far and away most who carry are good people just trying to either A. defend themselves or B. defend someone in grave danger.

[Norm Sauceman]

The states verify through the FBI. I am sure if someone checks out well in one state, it should be good enough for the rest of the states. If the Federal Government OK's the person then the State verifys that person is legal and law abiding then I think ALL states should recognize it..

[OJR]

I believe that all states should recognize the right to carry! If you are licensed in one state, it should be good in all 50!

It is very seldom that I go against states rights, but this is an exception!

[ParrotHead]

The last time the states started claiming hey had rights - Lincoln sent the Calvary down here and burned everything down!

As for a national right to carry - are you willing to enter into a "national registry" or database? That's the only way it's possible to get passed and I for one don't think it's a good idea - just like I don't think the national id is a good idea.

[Norm Sauceman]

Yes I am willing to be put on a National register stating I am legal to carry a concealed firearm.

[oldksnarc]

I'm not opposed to reciprocity if there is a minimum standard of qualification, i.e. background, training, and so forth. The feds just adopted a national carry for law enforcement officers. Boy was it confusing before.

[wtnhunt]

Think there should be laws of reciprocity in regards to this as well. IMHO should be a federal right to carry and that give you the right in all states.

[horst]

I really dont see what the problem would be.For instance I have to pass a background check here to buy a shotgun.Id pass the same check in any of the other 49 states.How many times do yo have to be checked over before your considered safe to carry a weapon?Its the same thing with a concealed weapon, somewhere, somebody checked you out real closely before they issued you a permit for that weapon or you wouldnt be carrying it, it shouldnt matter where it was done.