National Concealed Carry Reciprocity Makes Americans Safer

By Katie Pointer Baney | Washington Times | October 15, 2025

For the past several years, America has been experiencing a self-defense awakening. Across every region of the country, an increasing number of Americans are opting to responsibly carry a firearm to protect themselves and their families.

This right is more essential than ever before. Recent tragedies have shown that lives might have been saved, or violence prevented altogether, had victims or bystanders been lawfully carrying a concealed firearm.

To put this into context, in 2024, more than 15.2 million background checks were processed through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, marking the 65th consecutive month with more than 1 million checks. This underscores a sustained commitment to responsible firearm ownership after pandemic-level highs.

I am encouraged by the tremendous support from Americans who are purchasing firearms and seeking proper training. Yet right now, because of an antiquated patchwork of state laws, there are tremendous legal risks for law-abiding gun owners who simply want to protect themselves and their families. For example, if a gun owner carries a concealed weapon into a state that does not recognize their permit, they may be charged with a felony or misdemeanor, even if they are otherwise following the law.

Now heading to the House floor, H.R. 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, sponsored by Rep. Richard Hudson, North Carolina Republican, could be one of the most significant pieces of self-defense legislation passed by Congress in recent years.

This framework will bring much-needed clarity to the current patchwork of state laws, which often leaves gun owners uncertain about when and where they can safely exercise their rights. By recognizing concealed carry permits issued in any state, the bill empowers responsible gun owners to exercise their fundamental right to self-defense, regardless of state boundaries. If enacted, this crucial legislation will keep us all safer, safeguarding and bolstering Americans’ right to defend themselves and ensuring firearms are in the hands of responsible gun owners.

The bill’s momentum in Congress represents a historic move in the right direction, a resounding wave of support for ensuring that Second Amendment rights are respected across the country. It appears that now, more than at any other point in recent history, there is the political will in Congress and the White House to safeguard this fundamental right.

Read the full Op-Ed from the Washington Times HERE