The Alaska House of Representatives passed House Joint Resolution 3, urging Congress to pass the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act or a similar bill.
The resolution requests that Congress pass legislation allowing individuals with valid concealed carry permits from one state to lawfully carry a concealed firearm in another state to the same degree that an individual with a valid permit from that state can do so.
Citing the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects the right to bear arms, as well as the history of the U.S. Supreme Court in safeguarding this right, the resolution leans on the Constitution of the State of Alaska, which guarantees the individual right to keep and bear arms without denial or infringement by the state or its political subdivisions.
Currently, the State of Alaska has concealed carry reciprocity with 38 states. The resolution notes that other states that issue concealed carry permits often require applicants to submit fingerprints, pass a criminal background check, complete a handgun competency course, and demonstrate their ability and knowledge of firearm operation and responsibilities.
“We believe that law-abiding citizens who are legally allowed to carry concealed firearms in their home state should be allowed to do so in other states that recognize the right to bear arms,” said Representative George Rauscher (R-Sutton), the bill’s sponsor. “This resolution is an important step in protecting the rights of gun owners and ensuring that their rights are recognized and respected across state lines.”
Copies of the resolution will be sent to President Joseph R. Biden, Vice President Kamala D. Harris, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, and U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola.
