#Maryland Concealed Carry Permit

[ptpgunmedia]

Achieve Your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit Training with Us

Obtaining a Maryland Concealed Carry Permit is a significant step towards enhancing personal safety and exercising your Second Amendment rights responsibly. Understanding the state's laws and regulations, acquiring essential skills and knowledge, and navigating the application process are crucial aspects of obtaining a permit. At PTPGun, we offer a comprehensive training program led by expert instructors in state-of-the-art facilities to help you achieve your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit with confidence and proficiency. In this article, we will explore the requirements, benefits, training program details, legal considerations, and ongoing education opportunities related to obtaining your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit with us.

Understanding Maryland Concealed Carry Permit Requirements

Maryland's concealed carry laws regulate the carrying of concealed firearms in public places. Individuals must obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon lawfully in the state.

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Permit            

To qualify for a concealed carry permit in Maryland, applicants must meet specific requirements such as being at least 21 years old, completing a firearms training course, passing a background check, and demonstrating a good and substantial reason for carrying a concealed weapon.

Benefits of Obtaining a Concealed Carry Permit in Maryland

                                                                                              Having a concealed carry permit can provide individuals with a sense of security and the ability to protect themselves and their loved ones in potentially dangerous situations.

Legal Protection and Peace of Mind

Carrying a concealed weapon legally can offer peace of mind knowing that you are prepared to defend yourself within the parameters of the law, minimizing legal repercussions in self-defense situations.

Our Comprehensive Concealed Carry Training Program

Our training program covers essential topics such as firearm safety, marksmanship, Maryland gun laws, and situational awareness to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to carry a concealed weapon responsibly.

Hands-On Instruction and Range Practice

Our training includes hands-on instruction from experienced firearms instructors and opportunities for range practice to improve shooting proficiency and confidence in handling a firearm.

Expert Instructors and State-of-the-Art Training Facilities

Our instructors are certified professionals with extensive experience in firearms training, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction tailored to their individual learning needs.

State-of-the-Art Training Facilities and Equipment

We provide state-of-the-art training facilities equipped with the latest technology and safety measures to create a conducive learning environment for our students to develop their firearm skills effectively.

Practical Skills and Techniques for Safe Carry and Handling

When it comes to packing heat, safety should always be your wingman. Learn the cardinal rules of firearm safety and get acquainted with best practices to ensure you're the epitome of responsible gun ownership.

Proper Drawing and Firing Techniques

Master the art of drawing your weapon like a seasoned gunslinger and hone your firing techniques to hit your mark with precision. With great power comes great responsibility – and skills.

Navigating the Application Process and Legal Considerations

Applying for your concealed carry permit shouldn't feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. Get a step-by-step guide to breeze through the application process like a pro, so you can hit the streets (safely) with your permit in hand.

Understanding Self-Defense Laws and Responsibilities

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding self-defense laws and your responsibilities as a concealed carry permit holder. Don't just pack heat – pack knowledge too.

Maintaining Proficiency and Continuing Education Opportunities

In the world of concealed carry, there's no room for resting on your laurels. Discover ongoing training and skill development programs to keep your skills sharp and your confidence high.

Recertification Requirements and Renewal Process

Like a fine wine, your concealed carry permit needs regular check-ins to stay fresh. Unveil the recertification requirements and renewal process to ensure your permit stays as current as your Netflix queue.

Closing Thoughts

Empower yourself with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones by obtaining your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit through our comprehensive training program. With a focus on safety, proficiency, and legal compliance, PTPGun is committed to supporting you every step of the way. Stay informed, stay prepared, and exercise your rights responsibly. Contact us today to begin your journey towards achieving your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit with confidence and peace of mind.

Original Sources: https://ptpgunmedia.blogspot.com/2024/08/achieve-your-maryland-concealed-carry.html

[beardedmrbean]

A bill passed in the South Carolina Senate on Thursday would allow gun owners to carry their weapon in public without a concealed carry permit and would provide free firearms training.

The bill was approved by a 28-15 vote after nearly two weeks of debate surrounding concerns from some lawmakers and law enforcement officials over the open carry aspect. The addition of free firearms training is what led to a compromise and ultimately ended the debate.

The proposal now returns to the House, where representatives will need to agree to the Senate's addition of the free firearms training, and other changes, in order for the bill to make it to Gov. Henry McMaster's desk. 

If signed into law, South Carolina will join 27 other states – including nearly every one in the Deep South – that allow open carry without a permit.

MARYLAND BILL WOULD BAN GUN CARRY FOR OWNERS WITHOUT INSURANCE POLICY OF AT LEAST $300K

The Senate's amendments to the bill also include a required statewide advertising campaign to inform South Carolinians of the free concealed weapons permit training classes while also informing residents that guns can be carried openly by those over 18.

The proposed bill does not change the fact that convicted felons cannot legally carry guns and also keeps places like hospitals, schools and the Statehouse gun-free zones. Gun owners would also not be allowed to carry in other businesses that have decided to ban weapons.

The bill also includes new state penalties of at least five years when a felon is convicted of a crime using a gun, enhanced penalties for those convicted of carrying a gun in prohibited areas, and up to three additional years in prison for someone convicted of a gun crime who has not taken the concealed weapons permit class.

Republican Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said the bill probably would not have passed the Senate without the aforementioned changes, according to The Associated Press. Though he does not have a formal estimate on how much it will cost the state per year to host at least two free training classes per week in all 46 counties, he guessed it would be at least $4 million based on the number of concealed weapons permits issued in South Carolina each year.

CALIFORNIA JUDGE BLOCKS GUN CONTROL LAW REQUIRING BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR AMMO PURCHASES

Republican Sen. Shane Martin celebrated the bill passing in the chamber and said allowing open carry has been a goal of his since he was elected to his position in 2008.

"I don’t think it's going to cause as many problems as they think it’s going to because the one thing we have to remember is the criminals are always going to be carrying," the senator from Spartanburg County said, adding that the bill wasn't exactly what he wanted, but the compromises were needed for it to pass.

Sen. Mia McLeod, an independent who often votes with Democrats, said she is concerned the bill will turn South Carolina into the "Wild, Wild West" with "no licenses, no training [and] inadequate background checks."

Law enforcement leaders have expressed worry over people carrying guns without training or experience, and the possibility of encountering armed people at a shooting scene and not being able to determine who is a threat and who is trying to help.

The concerns from law enforcement are what initially caused many Republican lawmakers to question the bill.

[siryouarebeingmocked]

Imagine watching a video about armed extortionist criminals assaulting and murdering people, and years of complaints from their victims, and going, "I think I'll mock the idea that the drivers should protect themselves."

I think the most infuriating part is how spends a great deal of effort mocking people for the reaction he imagines they'd have in that situation he made up to avoid discussing the actual situation.

Just of the top of my head, there are very few guns you could easily carry to the beach that would be effective against a shark. Especially since most bullets lose momentum in a few feet of water.

And you'd have a good chance of hitting the person attacked by the shark.

And it's a tad ironic that he's trying to equate sentient human beings to animals.

Also, most gun crime is by illegal gun owners anyway, and if these kids are young enough, they might not even be able to legally possess a handgun in that state. In Maryland, the minimum legal age for concealed or open carry is 21, and you need a permit.

In short, they already have some of the most strict gun control in America.

The convicted "squeegee kid" was 15 at the time, which is federally illegal for gun ownership.

It literally could not be more illegal already.

I think a lot idiots go "lol" and "lmao" because they don't recognize their own cognitive dissonance.

[arctic-hands]

Huh, apparently brass knuckles are legal in Maryland, if you have a conceal carry permit.

I have no idea how to get one of those

[bighermie]

Concealed handgun permit holders didn’t commit those or other mass public shootings. Permit holders are also extremely law-abiding, being convicted of firearms-related violations at 1/12th the rate of police officers.

With the country’s strictest gun control laws, California probably shouldn’t hold itself out as a model for the rest of the country to follow. The periods after 2000, 2010, or 2020 show a consistent pattern: The per capita rate of mass public shootings in California is always greater than the rate for the rest of the country. The rate is also much higher than for Texas, which gun control groups give an “F” grade for its gun control laws. Since 2010, California’s mass public shooting rate per capita is 43% higher than for Texas and 29% higher than for the rest of the U.S. From 2020 on, California’s rate was 276% higher than Texas’ and 100% higher than the rest of the country.

[mspfirearmstraining]

Getting started with our Concealed Carry Permit MD training is straightforward. Simply contact us to schedule a training session at one of our locations. Get more information visit: https://mspfirearmstraining.com/maryland-wear-carry/

[dahlbrendan]

Md. gun laws restricting concealed carry in restaurants, private buildings, ruled unconstitutional https://wtop.com/maryland/2024/08/md-gun-laws-restricting-concealed-carry-in-restaurants-private-buildings-ruled-unconstitutional/

[concealedcarrymaryland]

The Difference Between Maryland Wear and Carry and Maryland HQL?

If you're considering owning a firearm in Maryland, understanding the distinction between Maryland Wear and Carry and Maryland HQL is crucial. While both involve firearm possession, each has its own set of requirements and processes.

Let's look into the main differences between Maryland Wear and Carry and Maryland HQL to help you navigate the firearm ownership landscape in the state.

Maryland Wear and Carry Vs. HQL Requirements

Understanding the key differences between Maryland Wear and Carry and Maryland HQL requirements is essential for anyone seeking to legally carry firearms in Maryland.

Maryland Wear and Carry permit allows you to carry a concealed handgun in public, whereas the HQL (Handgun Qualification License) is needed for purchasing, renting, or transferring a handgun.

The Wear and Carry permit demands a higher level of justification for issuance compared to the HQL, which is more focused on firearm safety training. Additionally, the application process for Wear and Carry involves demonstrating a 'good and substantial reason' for the permit, while the HQL process concentrates on completing a firearms training course.

Knowing these distinctions will help navigate the legal requirements for carrying firearms in Maryland effectively.

Application Process for Wear and Carry

To apply for a Maryland Wear and Carry permit, you must follow a thorough and specific application process.

First, complete a firearms training course from a state-approved instructor. Then, gather necessary documents such as proof of residency, a valid government-issued ID, and a signed application form.

Next, schedule an appointment with the Maryland State Police Licensing Division for fingerprinting. Submit all required documentation, including your training certificate and fingerprints, along with the application fee.

Your application will undergo a comprehensive background check, which includes criminal history and mental health records. Once approved, you'll be notified to pick up your Wear and Carry permit. It's essential to follow each step carefully to ensure a smooth application process.

Application Process for HQL

Moving on to the application process for a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) in Maryland requires a distinct set of steps distinct from obtaining a Wear and Carry permit.

To apply for an HQL, you must complete an online application through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. You'll need to provide personal information, undergo fingerprinting, and complete a firearms safety training course. Additionally, you mustn't be prohibited by law from owning a firearm.

The application process includes a background check which examines criminal history, mental health records, and other factors that may disqualify you from obtaining an HQL. Once all requirements are met, you can expect to receive your HQL within a few weeks.

Training Requirements for Wear and Carry

To obtain a Wear and Carry permit in Maryland, you must fulfill specific training requirements to demonstrate firearm proficiency and safety knowledge. The training must include a firearms safety course approved by the Maryland State Police, covering topics like firearm laws, safe handling, and storage.

Additionally, you need to complete a firearms training course that includes live-fire exercises to showcase your competency in using a handgun safely and effectively. The training is crucial to ensure that you understand the responsibilities that come with carrying a concealed weapon and can handle it safely in various situations.

Once you complete the required training, you can proceed with the application process for your Wear and Carry permit in Maryland.

Training Requirements for HQL

For the HQL in Maryland, meeting specific training requirements is necessary to demonstrate your proficiency with firearms and safety protocols. To obtain your Handgun Qualification License (HQL), you must complete a certified firearms training course. This course covers essential topics such as firearm safety, state firearm laws, and proper handling techniques.

The training must be conducted by a qualified instructor approved by the Maryland State Police. Additionally, you'll need to pass a firearms qualification test to showcase your ability to handle a handgun safely and accurately.

Once you fulfill these training requirements, you can proceed with the application process for your HQL, allowing you to purchase, rent, or carry a regulated firearm in the state of Maryland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Transfer My Maryland Wear and Carry Permit to Another State if I Move?

If you move to another state, you typically can't transfer your Maryland wear and carry permit. Each state has its own regulations for concealed carry permits.

You'll likely need to apply for a new permit in your new state.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Firearm I Can Carry With a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit?

When you have a Maryland Wear and Carry permit, the type of firearm you can carry may be restricted based on the permit conditions.

Make sure to adhere to any limitations or requirements set forth.

How Often Do I Need to Renew My Maryland Hql?

You need to renew your Maryland HQL every 10 years.

It's important to keep track of the expiration date to ensure you can continue legally owning and purchasing firearms in Maryland.

How frequently is a Wear and Carry permit renewed?

When a permit is initially issued, it must be renewed (2) years later. Each subsequent renewal takes place every (3) years after. Check here for permit renewal options.

Can I Apply for Both a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit and a Maryland HQL at the Same Time?

Yes, you can apply for both a Maryland Wear and Carry permit and a Maryland HQL at the same time.

Ensure you meet the requirements for both permits and submit separate applications for each.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Associated With Obtaining a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit or Hql?

When obtaining a Maryland Wear and Carry permit or HQL, additional fees may apply.

It's important to budget for costs like training courses, fingerprinting, background checks, and application fees to ensure a smooth process.

[graymanbriefing]

2nd Amendment Brief: National Summary Sig Sauer is reportedly now offering refunds to distributors and dealers in the event the federal government increases regulations against stabilizer braces. Debrief: (CLASSIFIED) After the U.S. Department of Commerce provided "only vague responses to limited questions" to Congress concerning its "90 day pause" on exporting licenses for civilian firearms and ammunition; Congress has "threatened" to issue a su...(CLASSIFIED) In Idaho, lawmakers have introduced a bill that would allow school staff/teachers to carry a concealed firearm in their "immediate control" IOT to respond to active shooter threats. To obtain the "enhanced permit", the law would req...(CLASSIFIED) In Virginia, the House Public Safety Committee held hearings on HB2, HB173, HB466, and HB1424. HB2 bans "assault weapons" (semi-automatic firearms with common attachments and/or 20+ round mags) and magazines holding more than 10 rounds. HB173 makes it unlawful to possess unserialized firearms/parts. HB466 will decrease rec...(CLASSIFIED) In Pennsylvania; the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the state cannot ban 18-20 year olds from carrying a firearm during a stat...(CLASSIFIED) In Maryland, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will allow a "rare" full court (Democrat controlled) hearing on multiple "gun control" bills inclu...(CLASSIFIED)

[countycurrent12]

Maryland County Votes To Prohibit Gun Possession In Public

Maryland County Votes To Prohibit Gun Possession In Public

Tuesday, the Montgomery County Council overwhelmingly voted in favour of a resolution prohibiting the possession of weapons within 100 yards of a gathering area for the public. The legislation was passed after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected rules in Maryland and other states comparable to a New York statute that made it difficult to obtain a concealed carry permit. Law enforcement and security…

[ptpgunmedia]

Maryland's Comprehensive Concealed Carry Guide: Lexington Park & Ocean City

Maryland's Comprehensive Concealed Carry Guide, presented by PTPGUN, offers essential information for residents of Lexington Park and Ocean City looking to navigate the state's concealed carry laws. Understanding the requirements, application processes, and safety measures associated with obtaining a concealed carry permit is crucial for responsible gun ownership. This guide provides a detailed overview of Maryland's concealed carry regulations, eligibility criteria for permits in specific areas, and insights into training, reciprocity agreements, and resources available to support concealed carry permit holders in the state. Whether you are new to concealed carry or seeking to enhance your knowledge, this guide aims to empower individuals with the necessary information to navigate Maryland's concealed carry landscape effectively.

Maryland's stance on concealed carry

Maryland takes its concealed carry laws seriously, with a "may issue" policy where the issuance of permits is at the discretion of law enforcement. This means applicants must demonstrate a good reason to carry a concealed weapon for self-defense.

Key regulations and statutes

Some key regulations to bear in mind include restrictions on where concealed carry is permitted, such as in schools and government buildings. Understanding these regulations is crucial for responsibly exercising your right to carry a concealed weapon in Maryland.

Requirements and Eligibility for Obtaining a Concealed Carry Permit in Lexington Park

Residency and age requirements

To obtain a concealed carry permit in Lexington Park, you must be a resident of Maryland and at least 21 years old. Non-residents who work in the state may also be eligible under certain circumstances.

Criminal background check process

Applicants must undergo a thorough background check, including a review of criminal history and mental health records. Any disqualifying factors, such as felony convictions or a history of domestic violence, can result in a permit denial.

Process of Applying for a Concealed Carry Permit in Ocean City

Application forms and documentation

When applying for a concealed carry permit in Ocean City, you will need to complete the necessary forms, provide proof of residency, undergo fingerprinting, and submit to a background check. It's important to ensure all documentation is accurate and up to date.

Waiting period and approval process

After submitting your application, there is a waiting period for approval, during which law enforcement reviews your application and background check results. If approved, you will receive your concealed carry permit, allowing you to legally carry a concealed weapon in Ocean City.

Training and Safety Measures for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

Mandatory training courses

Maryland requires concealed carry permit holders to undergo firearms training to ensure they can safely handle and use a weapon. These courses cover firearm safety, marksmanship, and legal aspects of concealed carry.

Best practices for safe concealed carry

In addition to mandatory training, it's important for concealed carry permit holders to continuously practice safe carrying habits. This includes proper storage of firearms, regular maintenance checks, and being aware of laws and regulations regarding the use of deadly force. Remember, with great firepower comes great responsibility!

Understanding Where You Can and Cannot Carry in Maryland

Restricted areas for carrying concealed weapons

In Maryland, there are specific areas where carrying concealed weapons is prohibited. These include schools and college campuses, courthouses, federal buildings, and places where alcohol is served. It's important to familiarize yourself with these restricted areas to ensure compliance with the law.

Concealed carry in public spaces

While Maryland allows for concealed carry of firearms, it's vital to remember that private property owners have the right to restrict firearms on their premises. Be aware of signage indicating no weapons allowed. Additionally, it's crucial to practice discretion and responsibility when carrying in public spaces to maintain safety for yourself and others.

Reciprocity Agreements with Other States for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

States recognizing Maryland's concealed carry permits

Maryland has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing concealed carry permit holders from Maryland to carry in those states. Some of these states include Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Check the latest information to ensure you are knowledgeable about where you can carry with your Maryland permit.

Benefits of reciprocity agreements for permit holders

Reciprocity agreements provide permit holders with the flexibility to carry concealed in multiple states, making travel more convenient and ensuring continuity of self-defense measures. Understanding and adhering to the laws of each state is crucial when carrying across state lines to avoid any legal complications.

Resources and Support for Concealed Carry Permit Holders in Maryland

Local gun ranges and training facilities

Maryland offers a range of gun ranges and training facilities for concealed carry permit holders to practice and enhance their skills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter, these resources can help you stay proficient and confident in your ability to handle firearms safely.

Legal support and advocacy groups for permit holders

For legal advice and support regarding concealed carry laws in Maryland, there are advocacy groups and legal resources available to assist permit holders. It's essential to stay informed about any changes in legislation and seek guidance from reputable organizations to ensure you are well-versed in your rights and responsibilities as a concealed carry permit holder.

Closing Thoughts

As you venture through the process of obtaining a concealed carry permit in Maryland, remember that responsible gun ownership comes with a commitment to ongoing training, adherence to regulations, and a dedication to safety. By familiarizing yourself with the intricacies of Maryland's concealed carry laws, staying informed about where you can carry, and leveraging resources and support networks, you can navigate the concealed carry landscape with confidence. Whether you reside in Lexington Park or Ocean City, this guide, in collaboration with PTPGUN, equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to embrace concealed carry responsibly while exercising your Second Amendment rights within the boundaries of the law.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a concealed carry permit in Maryland if I am a non-resident?

Non-residents are generally not eligible for a concealed carry permit in Maryland, as the state typically requires applicants to be residents. However, there may be exceptions for individuals who own property or have certain business interests in the state.

2. Are there specific places where carrying a concealed weapon is prohibited in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland law prohibits carrying concealed weapons in certain locations such as schools, government buildings, and public transportation facilities. It is essential to familiarize yourself with these restricted areas to avoid any legal implications.

3. Do I need to undergo training to obtain a concealed carry permit in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland law mandates that individuals seeking a concealed carry permit must complete a certified training course that covers firearm safety, marksmanship, and relevant state laws. This training is crucial for ensuring safe and responsible firearm handling.

Original Sources: https://ptpgun.wordpress.com/2024/05/17/marylands-comprehensive-concealed-carry-guide-lexington-park-ocean-city/

[fortresstraining]

how to get a conceal carry or the open carry permit in the usa. the 44 sates and the different laws of the Maryland. Read on to know more.

[beardedmrbean]

A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that a state law requiring Marylanders to obtain a handgun qualification license before purchasing or receiving a firearm is unconstitutional.

“This is a significant ruling for the Second Amendment and every American who cherishes our constitutional freedoms,” said Randy Kozuch, the executive director of the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action, in a statement.

In a split 2-1 decision, a three-judge panel of the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals found a portion of the state’s Firearm Safety Act of 2013 to be unconstitutional. That part of the law prohibits Marylanders from purchasing, renting or receiving a handgun unless they have received a valid handgun qualification license.

It is also illegal to sell, rent, gift or transfer a firearm to a person without a license under that law.

To receive a handgun qualification license, applicants must be Maryland residents aged 21 or older. They are required to pass a firearm safety course and undergo a background check to ensure they aren’t prohibited from owning a gun under state or federal law. The licenses are issued by the Maryland State Police. The application review process can take up to 30 days.

The case, brought on behalf of the firearms rights organization Maryland Shall Issue, two individual plaintiffs and a gun store, was filed initially against former Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican. Hogan met his term limit earlier this year and was replaced by Democratic Gov. Wes Moore, who is now considered the defendant in the case.

Moore said he is “disappointed” by Tuesday’s decision.

“This law is not about stripping away rights from responsible gun owners — it’s about every Marylander having the right to live free from fear,” the governor said. “I am determined to do more than just give thoughts and prayers and attend funerals — and that’s why this law is vital to our administration’s commitment to keeping guns out of the wrong hands and saving lives.”

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, a Democrat, said he is “incredibly frustrated,” and that Tuesday’s ruling “threatens the safety of our communities.”

State Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Baltimore Democrat, called the ruling “crazy.”

“Every responsible gun owner supports basic firearm training and keeping guns out of criminals’ hands,” Ferguson said. “This decision will unequivocally lead to more gun violence and firearm-related deaths.”

The law was upheld when it was initially challenged in 2016.

Tuesday’s opinion, written by U.S. Circuit Judge Julius Richardson, reversed that ruling. Richardson, an appointee of former President Donald Trump who clerked for former Supreme Court Chief Justice William Rehnquist, cited the U.S. Supreme Court decision in the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, which overturned New York state’s gun licensing policy and disrupted the licensing process in Maryland, California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island.

The state has two weeks to ask for a review of the decision by the entire 14-judge 4th Circuit. It also may ask the Supreme Court to review the decision.

The New York law that the Supreme Court deemed unconstitutional in 2022 required people applying for permits to carry guns in public to demonstrate “proper cause” to successfully receive a concealed carry permit.

In his opinion, Richardson wrote that the Bruen decision “effected a sea change in Second Amendment law” and that, in order for the law to be constitutional, the state must demonstrate that the challenged law is similar enough to “a historically recognized exception to the right to keep and bear arms.”

U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, a Maryland Democrat, said that the ruling is “yet another disastrous consequence of the absurd new Supreme Court standard that today’s gun laws need to match those from centuries ago.”

In a statement issued after the release of the opinion, William Taylor, the deputy director of Second Amendment litigation at Everytown Law, a group that advocates for gun safety, said that the now-stricken licensing process is “not only common sense, it is entirely consistent with the Second Amendment and the new test established by the Bruen decision.”

“While today’s decision is a setback to public safety, we fully expect that the full 4th Circuit, or if necessary, the Supreme Court, will reverse this dangerous decision and uphold Maryland’s critical gun safety law,” he said.

The three-judge panel ruled Tuesday that the state’s argument for upholding the law did not meet the Bruen case’s historical standard.

“The 4th Circuit Court’s decision to overturn Maryland’s restrictive gun license law sends a clear message: Law-abiding Marylanders’ fundamental right to self-defense must not be infringed,” Kozuch said.

[unclesamsmisguidedclub]

CCW Permits - Supreme Court Petitioned to Review "Good Reason" Argument

CCW Permits – Supreme Court Petitioned to Review “Good Reason” Argument

A petition to the Supreme Court to take up Maryland’s “good reason” for CCW permits could have far-reaching effects.  If the court takes the case, it could set the rules for carrying a firearm outside the home, particularly in blue states that rarely issue such permits.

“A right delayed is a right denied” Alan Gottlieb, Second Amendment Foundation

Is carrying a firearm a right, or a “regulated…

[anhedonia-and-anomie]

A little light recommended reading from Chris Hedges, after my very long break...

“The Supreme Court is relentlessly funding and empowering Christian fascism. It not only overturned Roe v. Wade, ending a constitutional right to an abortion, but ruled on June 21 that Maine may not exclude religious schools from a state tuition program. It has ruled that a Montana state program to support private schools must include religious schools. It ruled that a 40-foot cross could remain on state property in suburban Maryland. It upheld the Trump administration regulation allowing employers to deny birth control coverage to female employees on religious grounds. It ruled that employment discrimination laws do not apply to teachers at religious schools. It ruled that a Catholic social services agency in Philadelphia could ignore city rules and refuse to screen same-sex couples applying to take in foster children. It neutered the 1965 Voting Rights Act. It watered down laws allowing workers to combat sexual and racial harassment in court. It reversed century-old campaign finance restric­tions to permit corpor­a­tions, private groups and oligarchs to spend unlim­ited funds on elec­tions, a system of legalized bribery, in Citizens United v Federal Election Commission. It permitted states to opt out of the Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion. It undercut the ability of public sector unions to raise funds. It forced workers with legal grievances to submit their complaints to privatized arbitration boards. It ruled that states cannot restrict the right to carry concealed weapons in public. It ruled that suspects cannot sue police who neglect to read them their Miranda warnings and use their statements against them in court. Outlawing contraception, same-sex marriage and same-sex consensual relations are probably next. Only 25 percent of those polled say they have confidence in Supreme Court decisions.

I do not use the word fascist lightly. My father was a Presbyterian minister. My mother, a professor, was a seminary graduate. I received my Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School. I am an ordained Presbyterian minister. Most importantly, I spent two years reporting from megachurches, creationist seminars, right-to-life retreats, Christian broadcasting networks and conducted hundreds of hours of interviews with members and leaders of the Christian right for my book ‘American Fascists: The Christian Right and the War on America,’ which is banned at most ‘Christian’ schools and universities. Before the book was published, I met at length with Fritz Stern, the author of The Politics of Cultural Despair: A Study in the Rise of the German Ideology, and Robert O. Paxton, who wrote The Anatomy of Fascism, two of the country’s most eminent scholars of fascism, to make sure the word fascist was appropriate.

The book was a warning that an American fascism, wrapped in the flag and clutching the Christian cross, was organizing to extinguish our anemic democracy. This assault is very far advanced. The connecting tissue among the disparate militia groups, QAnon conspiracy theorists, anti-abortion activists, right-wing patriot organizations, Second Amendment advocates, neo-Confederates and Trump supporters that stormed the Capitol on January 6 is this frightening Christian fascism.

Fascists achieve power by creating parallel institutions – schools, universities, media platforms and paramilitary forces – and seizing the organs of internal security and the judiciary. They deform the law, including electoral law, to serve their ends. They are rarely in the majority. The Nazis never polled above 37 percent in free elections in Germany. Christian fascists constitute less than a third of the U.S. electorate, about the same percentage of those who consider abortion to be murder.

This flagrant manipulation of law was displayed in two of the most recent Supreme Court decisions, where those who support this ideology have a five to three majority, with the less extremist Chief Justice John Roberts often adding a sixth vote. In overturning Roe v. Wade, the court, in a six to three decision, argued that states have the power to decide whether abortion is legal. The same court conversely came down against ‘states’ rights,’ in striking down strict restrictions on carrying concealed firearms.

What the ideology demands is law. What the ideology opposes is a crime. Once a legal system is subservient to dogma an open society is impossible.

Blow by blow autocratic power is being solidified by this monstrous Christian fascism which is bankrolled by the most retrograde forces of corporate capitalism. It looks set to take control of the U.S. Congress in the midterm elections. If Trump, or a Trump-like clone, is elected in 2024, what is left of our democracy will likely be extinguished.

These Christians fascists are clear about the society they intend to create.

In their ideal America, our ‘secular humanist’ society based on science and reason will be destroyed. The Ten Commandments will form the basis of the legal system. Creationism or ‘Intelligent Design’ will be taught in public schools, many of which will be overtly ‘Christian.’ Those branded as social deviants, including the LGBTQ community, immigrants, secular humanists, feminists, Jews, Muslims, criminals, and those dismissed as ‘nominal Christians’—meaning Christians who do not embrace this peculiar interpretation of the Bible—will be silenced, imprisoned, or killed. The role of the federal government will be reduced to protecting property rights, ‘homeland’ security and waging war. Most government assistance programs and federal departments, including education, will be terminated. Church organizations will be funded and empowered to run social-welfare agencies and schools. The poor, condemned for sloth, indolence, and sinfulness, will be denied help. The death penalty will be expanded to include ‘moral crimes,’ including apostasy, blasphemy, sodomy, and witchcraft, as well as abortion, which will be treated as murder. Women, denied contraception, access to abortion, and equality under the law, will be subordinate to men. Those who practice other faiths will become, at best, second-class citizens. The wars waged by the American empire will be defined as religious crusades. Victims of police violence and those in prison will have no redress. There will be no separation of church and state. The only legitimate voices in public discourse and the media will be ‘Christian.’ America will be sacralized as an agent of God. Those who defy the ‘Christian’ authorities, at home and abroad, will be condemned as agents of Satan.

How did the historians of Weimar Germany and Nazism, the professors of Holocaust studies, the sociologists and the religious scholars manage to miss the rise of our homegrown Christian fascism? Immersed in the writings of Hannah Arendt, Raul Hilberg, Saul Friedländer, Joachim Fest, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Theodor Adorno, they never connected the dots. Why didn’t church leaders thunder in denunciation at the grotesque perversion of the Gospel by the Christian fascists as they sacralized the get-rich-with-Jesus schemes of the prosperity gospel, imperialism, militarism, capitalism, patriarchy, white supremacy, and other forms of bigotry? Why didn’t reporters see the flashing red lights that lit up decades ago?

Most of those tasked with reporting on and interpreting history, social movements and religious beliefs have failed us. They spoke about the past, vowing ‘Never again,’ but refused to use the lessons of the past to explain the present. It was not ignorance. It was cowardice. To confront the Christian fascists, even in universities, meant career-canceling accusations of religious bigotry and intolerance. It meant credible threats of violence from conspiracy theorists who believed they were called by God to murder abortion providers, Muslims, and ‘secular humanists.’

It was easier, as many academics did in Weimar Germany, to believe that the fascists did not mean what they said, that there were strains within the movement that could be reasoned with, that opening channels of dialogue and communication could see the fascists domesticated, that if in power the fascists would not act on their extremist and violent rhetoric. With few exceptions, German academics did not protest the Nazi assumption of power and the wholesale dismissal of their liberal, socialist, and Jewish colleagues.

Although my book was a New York Times best seller, Harvard told my publisher it was not interested in my appearing at the school. I gave a lecture on the book at Colgate University, where I had earned my undergraduate degree, organized by my mentor Coleman Brown, a professor of ethics. I held a seminar, also organized by Coleman, with the professors of philosophy and religion after the talk. These professors wanted nothing to do with the critique. When we left the room, Coleman muttered, ‘the problem is they do not believe in heretics.’

I was asked in 2006 to speak at the inauguration of the LGBT center at Princeton University when I was the Anschutz Distinguished Fellow in American Studies. To my dismay, the faculty facilitators had invited representatives from the right-wing Christian student group who see any deviation from heterosexuality as a psychological and moral abnormality. Christian fascist pastors in Texas and Idaho, who have driven countless young people struggling with their sexual identity to suicide, have called for the execution of gay people as recently as a few days ago.

‘There is no dialogue with those who deny your legitimate right to be,’ I said, looking pointedly at the LGBTQ students. ‘At that point it is a fight for survival.’

The faculty member organizing the event leapt from her chair.

‘This is a university,’ she said to me curtly. ‘Your talk is over. You can’t say those kinds of things here.’

I sat down. But I had made my point.

All those tasked in our society with interpreting the world around us forgot, as philosopher Karl Popper wrote in The Open Society and Its Enemies, that ‘unlimited tolerance must lead to the disappearance of tolerance. If we extend unlimited tolerance to those who are intolerant, if we are not prepared to defend a tolerant society against the onslaught of the intolerant, then the tolerant will be destroyed, and tolerance with them.’

These scholars, writers, intellectuals, and journalists, like those in Weimar Germany, bear much of the blame. They preferred accommodation over confrontation. They stood by as the working class was stripped of rights and impoverished by the billionaire class, fertilizing the ground for an American fascism. Those who orchestrated the economic, political, and social assault are the major donors to the universities. They control trustee boards, grants, academic prizes, think tanks, promotion, publishing, and tenure. Academics, looking for an exit, ignored the attacks by the ruling oligarchy. They ascribed to the Christian fascists, bankrolled by huge corporations such as Tyson Foods, Purdue, Wal-Mart and Sam’s Warehouse, attributes that did not exist. They tacitly gave the Christian fascists religious legitimacy. These Christian fascists are an updated version of the so-called German Christian Church, or Deutsche Christen, which fused the iconography and symbols of the Christian religion with the Nazi party. The theologian Paul Tillich, the first non-Jewish German professor to be blacklisted from German universities by the Nazis, angrily chastised those who refused to fight ‘the paganism of the swastika’ and retreated into a myopic preoccupation with personal piety.

Victor Klemperer, stripped of his position as a professor of Romance languages at the Technical University of Dresden when the Nazis came to power in 1933 because he was Jewish, mused in his diary in 1936 what he would do in post-Nazi Germany if ‘the fate of the vanquished lay in my hands.’ He wrote that he would ‘let all the ordinary folk go and even some of the leaders…But I would have all the intellectuals strung up, and the professors three feet higher than the rest; they would be left hanging from the lamp posts for as long as was compatible with hygiene.’

Fascists promise moral renewal, a return to a lost golden age. They use campaigns of moral purity to justify state repression. Adolf Hitler, days after he took power in January 1933, imposed a ban on all homosexual organizations. He ordered raids on homosexual clubs and bars, including the Institute for Sexual Science in Berlin, and the permanent exile of its director, Magnus Hirschfeld. Thousands of volumes from the institute’s library were tossed into a bonfire. This ‘moral cleansing’ was cheered on by the German public, including German churches. But the tactics, outside the law, swiftly legitimized what would soon be done to others.

I studied at Harvard with theologian James Luther Adams. Adams was a member of the underground anti-Nazi Confessing Church in Germany led by the Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller. Adams was arrested in 1936 by the Gestapo and expelled from the country. He was one of the very few to see the deadly strains of fascism in the nascent Christian right.

‘When you are my age,’ he told us (he was then 80), ‘you will all be fighting the Christian fascists.’

And here we are.

The billionaire class, while sometimes socially liberal, dispossessed working men and women through deindustrialization, austerity, a legalized tax boycott, looting the U.S. Treasury and deregulation. It triggered the widespread despair and rage that pushed many of the betrayed into the arms of these con artists and demagogues. It is more than willing to accommodate the Christian fascists, even if it means abandoning the liberal veneer of inclusiveness. It has no intention of supporting social equality, which is why it thwarted the candidacy of Bernie Sanders.

In the end, even the liberal class will choose fascism over empowering the left-wing and organized labor. The only thing the ruling oligarchy truly cares about is unfettered exploitation and profit. They, like the industrialists in Nazi Germany, will happily make an alliance with the Christian fascists, no matter how bizarre and buffoonish, and embrace the blood sacrifices of the condemned.”

— Chris Hedges, Fascists In Our Midst | 6-26-22