Maryland Republican Gov. Larry Hogan said the state will no longer require a “good and substantial” reason for people to receive a wear-and-carry permit for their guns.
Hogan cited the recent Supreme Court decision striking down New York’s conceal carry requirements.
“Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a provision in New York law pertaining to handgun permitting that is virtually indistinguishable from Maryland law,” wrote Hogan. “In light of the ruling and to ensure compliance with the Constitution, I am directing the Maryland State Police to immediately suspend utilization of the ‘good and substantial reason’ standard when reviewing applications for Wear and Carry Permits.”
The Maryland law is similar to the New York law, which also required people to provide a good reason to conceal carry their guns.
“It would be unconstitutional to continue enforcing this provision in state law.”
Hogan said suspending the requirement would not “impact on other permitting requirements and protocols.”
Maryland will still require people to go through a background check and provide fingerprints. People will also have to go through a check to make sure they are not barred from owning guns.
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