Understanding California’s Concealed Carry Laws

Current laws in California permit citizens to lawfully carry a concealed firearm in public. Under California Penal Code section 26150, individuals who meet the eligibility requirements of the state, can obtain a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license from the county sheriff.The Constitutional Right to Bear ArmsThe right to keep and bear arms grants citizens the ability to “possess weapons for the protection of themselves, their rights, and their property.” This fundamental right, enshrined in the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is the subject of heavy debate throughout the country, yet many would argue, remains a cornerstone of traditional American values and upholds the rights of citizens to defend themselves within their homes.The Evolution of Concealed Carry LawsDating back to the early 19th century, most states in the U.S. banned or placed heavy restrictions on carrying concealed weapons in public due to concerns around safety and potential violence.In the 20th century, as attitudes changed, legislation began to be passed in many states authorizing the carrying of a concealed weapon for citizens who met certain prescribed criteria. Over time, many of the restrictions around gun laws and the issuing of CCW permits have been loosened, resulting in a significant increase in the number of people allowed to carry concealed weapons in public.California, like Florida, and many other U.S. states allows individuals to request a risk protection order from a court, which if granted, will order the confiscation of ammunition and firearms from individuals deemed to pose a danger to themselves or others. CCW Status in CaliforniaBefore June 2022, California gun laws gave authorities wide discretion when issuing or denying a CCW permit. One of the qualifying criteria applicants had to show was that of “good cause”, resulting in law enforcement agencies only issuing permits to individuals who demonstrated a particular safety reason or other valid concern for carrying a concealed firearm in public.However, following the US Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen in June 2022, California law enforcement agencies no longer require citizens to demonstrate “good cause” for obtaining a CCW permit.Court Blocks California’s Concealed Carry BanEarlier this year, a decision by a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal blocked a California law that banned the carrying of concealed firearms in “sensitive places” such as schools, churches, playgrounds, amusement parks and places of worship. The law, signed in by Governor Gavin Newsom, can no longer take effect after lawmakers have deemed it to be unconstitutional and in violation of the Second Amendment rights of citizens. In a controversial response to this decision, the office of Governor Newsom stated the decision was dangerous and “puts the lives of Californians on the line”.  Many others also echo this sentiment, believing that the ban has undermined decades of gun safety progress in the state.The Future of California’s Concealed Carry LawsThe issues surrounding gun laws will no doubt continue to be hotly contested in the years ahead. As anti-gun groups cite the rise in mass shootings and the need to reduce gun violence, gun advocates maintain their constitutional right to defend themselves, their rights and their property.The ongoing debate will continue to reshape our attitudes toward the balance between personal safety and individual rights.