Today, the Maryland General Assembly voted to override Governor Larry Hogan’s veto of House Bill 1343 / Senate Bill 1000. This vote came without notice and jammed through to avoid input from the public and gun owners throughout the state. This is the legislature taking yet another step to undermine your right to self-defense and your Right to Keep and Bear Arms.
Unfortunately, HB 1343 / SB 1000 now becomes law. This legislation removes citizen oversight of the appeals process for Maryland carry permits. Previously, individuals who are denied a permit could file an appeal to the Handgun Permit Review Board, a group of five members of the public appointed by the Governor. HB 1343 / SB 1000 dissolves this board, thus removing all public oversight, and making all appeals cumbersome, difficult, and costly.
This move by a clearly anti-gun legislature is a strong reminder that we must all remain ever vigilant to protect our freedom. Stay-tuned to NRA-ILA alerts for more information on this and other legislative activity throughout the session.