Shall Issue vs. Permitless Carry: The Evolving Landscape of Reciprocity

Current Carry Frameworks

Shall Issue States require permits with specific criteria but must issue if all requirements are met. These typically include background checks, training courses, and fees.
Permitless Carry States (constitutional carry) allow legal gun owners to carry without permits with some state specific limitations. Residents may still opt to obtain a state issued carry permit.

The Interstate Compliance Challenge

While permitless carry expands access to concealed carry, it creates significant interstate travel challenges for individuals who opt not to obtain optional state-issued carry permits: they are not covered under reciprocity agreements.
Currently, responsible carriers must also navigate:
  • State-by-state reciprocity agreements
  • Non-resident permit requirements
  • Different carry restrictions by location
  • Potentially conflicting legal frameworks

H.R. 38: A Potential Game-Changer

The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (H.R. 38) introduced in January 2025 proposes a federal solution allowing valid permit holders or legal carriers from permitless states to carry in all states that allow concealed carry.
This legislation represents a significant potential shift in how concealed carriers navigate interstate travel, possibly eliminating the complex web of reciprocity agreements while preserving states' authority to determine where carrying is permitted within their borders.
Current Status: On March 25, 2025, the House Judiciary Committee approved an amended version of H.R. 38 with an 18-9 vote, moving it forward for potential House consideration.

If H.R. 38 Becomes Law:

  1. Your constitutional right to bear arms would not stop at state lines.
  2. Permitless State Residents could legally carry in any state while following local restrictions on locations and conduct
  3. Permit Holders would have nationwide recognition similar to driver's licenses
  4. Compliance Would Simplify with standardized recognition across state lines, though state-specific location restrictions would remain in effect

Practical Considerations

Right Now:

  • Research destination state laws thoroughly before traveling
  • If you travel to a Shall Issue states, consider obtaining permits even if your state is permitless
  • Use strategic non-resident permits for broader recognition
  • Contact your Congressional representatives in both the House and Senate to express your support for H.R. 38 and encourage their favorable vote
  • Watch H.R. 38, monitor the bill's progress through the House and potentially Senate here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/38
  • Understand that amendments may change specific provisions

Stay safe out there 

-Ronnie

Ronnie Hiles

Veteran/Co-owner CYA Supply

Ronnie Hiles is a US Marine Veteran and the co-owner of CYA Supply. Ronnie has been designing concealed carry holsters for over a decade.

Learn more about Ronnie Hiles
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