Connecticut bans open carrying. For now.
SECOND AMENDMEND: A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.
2022 SUPREME COURT RULING: All Americans, even New Yorkers, have a right to carry firearms in public for self-defense.
THE EXECUTIVE (FEDERAL): Last week was marked by the first federal “gun regulation” office. Centralized power = uncontrolled power.
THE EXECUTIVE (STATE OF CONNECTICUT): Connecticut has implemented its most comprehensive gun control measure since the 2013 law enacted after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The new law, signed by Democratic Governor Ned Lamont in June 2023, restricts the open carrying of firearms and limits the sale of more than three handguns within 30 days to any individual, with exceptions for certain cases like instructors. Despite legal challenges facing the law, proponents are determined to pursue further gun legislation in Connecticut.
Jeremy Stein, executive director of Connecticut Against Gun Violence, emphasized their commitment to passing life-saving laws to combat gun violence. This new law, as well as the landmark 2013 legislation, has faced court challenges from gun rights supporters. Similar legal battles are occurring in politically liberal-leaning states like California, Washington, Colorado, and Maryland, all of which have recently passed gun control laws. These developments fol the U.S. Supreme Court’s expansion of gun rights.
While some gun rights activists have protested the new law, arguing it infringes on Second Amendment rights, proponents argue that it is necessary to enhance public safety. The law also includes provisions to toughen penalties for gun offenses, expand assault weapons bans, and address domestic violence-related gun disqualifications.
