This week the House passed H.R. 822, the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act, an important measure strengthening gun rights for law abiding Americans. This legislation would recognize that Second Amendment rights do not stop at the state line by essentially treating concealed-carry licenses like driver’s licenses, requiring that each state recognize another state’s permit as valid. As a cosponsor of this legislation, I am encouraged by the strong bipartisan vote of 272-154 and the recognition that Americans should have the ability to lawfully carry their firearms when they travel across the United States. This will benefit people who travel frequently, freeing them from the costs and redundant paperwork involved in obtaining multiple state permits.

I also want to address the concerns you may have heard about the legislation undermining state gun laws or possible amendments restricting gun ownership rights. First, H.R. 822 does not authorize federal agencies to monitor or regulate concealed carry permits, and it does not change state laws governing how firearms are carried or used. Also, it would not affect the permit-free carry systems in states such as Arizona, Alaska, Wyoming, and Vermont. Residents of those states could apply for the permits in their state, which are available but not required, or could obtain a nonresident permit in another state to enjoy the benefits of H.R. 822. Second, I wanted to let you know that the House rejected all amendments that would have restricted gun ownership rights. You can view the amendments that were voted down here.

I hope that the Senate acts quickly on this bipartisan legislation to strengthen Second Amendment rights. You might want to contact your United States senators from California to let them know your views on it.