February 9, 2009, WASHINGTON–Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) has introduced the Respecting States’ Rights and Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (S.371), a bill that would allow people to carry lawfully concealed firearms across state lines, while at the same time respecting the laws of the host state.
“South Dakota is a state with responsible laws allowing citizens to protect themselves with concealed weapons,” Thune said. “Law-abiding South Dakotans should be able to exercise the right to bear arms in states with similar regulations on concealed firearms.”
Currently, some states with concealed carry laws grant reciprocity to permit-holders from other select states. Thune’s bill strikes a balance between individual and states’ rights by allowing an individual to carry a concealed firearm across state lines if they either have a valid permit or if, under their state of residence, they are entitled to do so. People traveling with guns must follow the laws of the host state, including laws concerning specific types of locations in which firearms may or may not be carried.
