To require the District of Columbia to permit Members of Congress who have a valid license or permit which is issued pursuant to the law of a State which permits the Member to carry a concealed firearm, or who is otherwise entitled to carry a concealed firearm in the State in which the Member resides, to carry a concealed firearm in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 4788 aims to allow Members of Congress to carry concealed firearms in the District of Columbia, provided they have a valid concealed carry license from another state or are otherwise entitled to carry a concealed firearm in their state of residence. The bill amends Section 5 of the Act of July 8, 1932, of the D.C. Official Code to exempt Members of Congress from certain restrictions on carrying pistols. It stipulates that this exemption applies only if the Member is not prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms and carries valid identification.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 4788 would create an exception to the District of Columbia's laws regarding concealed carry for Members of Congress. This would allow them to carry concealed firearms in D.C. under certain conditions, potentially increasing the number of individuals legally carrying firearms in the District.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially enhances the personal safety of Members of Congress.
- Aligns D.C.'s concealed carry regulations for Members of Congress with those of other states where they have permits.
- Could be seen as upholding the Second Amendment rights of Members of Congress.
- May deter potential threats against Members of Congress in the District of Columbia.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could increase the risk of accidental shootings or misuse of firearms in the District.
- May create a perception of unequal application of the law, as it provides an exception for a specific group of individuals.
- Potentially increases the number of firearms in the District of Columbia, which some may view as a public safety concern.
- May lead to increased tensions or fear among residents and visitors in D.C.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill touches upon the Second Amendment, which guarantees the right of the people to keep and bear Arms. However, the extent to which this right applies in the District of Columbia and whether it extends to concealed carry is subject to legal interpretation. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever over the District of Columbia, potentially giving them the authority to modify D.C.'s gun laws in this manner.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).