Massie Proposes National Constitutional Carry Act to Expand Gun Rights Nationwide

Representative Thomas Massie has introduced the National Constitutional Carry Act (H.R. 645) to standardize Second Amendment rights across the United States. The legislation seeks to ensure that law-abiding citizens can carry firearms in public without facing state or local restrictions, thereby protecting the constitutional right to self-defense as affirmed by the Supreme Court.

The bill addresses two key areas: it prohibits any state or locality from imposing penalties on eligible firearm carriers and invalidates laws that limit the public carrying of firearms. This federal measure would override state and local firearm regulations that conflict with its provisions, extending these protections to all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories. The proposed law aligns with Supreme Court rulings in District of Columbia v. Heller and New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, which upheld the right to bear arms outside the home for self-defense.

Massie’s bill has garnered endorsements from gun rights organizations such as the National Association for Gun Rights and the American Firearms Association. Supporters argue that constitutional carry laws have been implemented successfully in 29 states without leading to increased violence. Critics, however, may raise concerns about public safety and state sovereignty.

In addition to Representative Massie, the bill has several co-sponsors, including lawmakers from Texas, Arizona, and Georgia, among other states. Proponents view the legislation as a critical step in unifying firearm laws across the country and eliminating barriers to the exercise of Second Amendment rights. The bill is currently under review in the House of Representatives.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

Associated documents for this story are available in our Public Information Archive.

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