U.S Representative Richard Hanna – Why I Voted Yes on H.R. 822
Washington, DC –-(Ammoland.com)- I voted Yes on H.R. 822, the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act, of which I am a co-sponsor.
This bill allows an individual with a valid state-issued concealed firearm permit to carry in any other state that issues concealed firearm permits, or that does not prohibit the carrying of concealed firearms for lawful purposes.
Instead, the bill requires states to recognize each others’ permits, in a similar manner to how they recognize drivers’ licenses.
Importantly, H.R. 822 does not change state laws regulating how concealed firearms are carried within any state. All state, federal, and local laws regarding carrying a concealed handgun that would apply to a resident of a state will also apply in equal force to a non-resident.
It is important to make certain law enforcement is appropriately prepared and equipped to enforce this new law. That is why I supported an amendment offered by Rep. Dave Reichert – a former sheriff – requiring a study to examine the extent to which law enforcement is currently able to verify the validity of out-of-state concealed firearms permits.
I voted Yes because the Second Amendment is an important individual right guaranteed to us at the federal level by the U.S. Constitution. I will continue to defend and support this right on behalf of law-abiding Upstate New Yorkers.
The bill was passed by a bipartisan vote of 272 – 154.