Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti and 24 other state attorneys general are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Massachusetts’ strict firearm licensing requirements for nonresidents, arguing the system violates constitutional rights by placing excessive burdens on lawful visitors.

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BOSTON, MA (3-minute read) — Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has joined 24 other state attorneys general in urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Massachusetts’ firearm licensing requirements for out-of-state visitors. The coalition argues that the state’s permit process imposes unconstitutional restrictions on nonresidents legally carrying firearms in their home states.

The dispute arises from a case involving a New Hampshire resident who was arrested in Massachusetts after voluntarily disclosing to law enforcement that he was carrying a legally owned firearm. Though a trial court initially dismissed the charges, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court later reinstated them, stating the individual lacked the required Massachusetts firearms license.

In their multistate brief, the 25 attorneys general contend that Massachusetts’ system violates the Second Amendment by creating undue obstacles for lawful gun owners traveling into the state. These obstacles include lengthy application delays, high fees, and what the coalition describes as excessive discretion in approving or denying firearm licenses to nonresidents.

From a self-defense and concealed carry perspective, these requirements could effectively disarm responsible gun owners when they cross state lines. This is particularly concerning for individuals who travel frequently for work or personal reasons and rely on their legal right to carry for protection.

Why This Matters for Concealed Carriers Nationwide

Massachusetts is one of the few states that does not recognize any out-of-state carry permits, making it a legal minefield for lawful gun owners. Critics say the system turns law-abiding citizens into accidental criminals simply for crossing state borders with a legally owned firearm.

Tennessee AG Skrmetti emphasized the importance of protecting citizens’ rights across state lines, especially when they are not committing any other offense. “The Constitution does not end at a state border,” he stated.

With the Supreme Court’s recent rulings strengthening Second Amendment protections, this case could serve as a crucial test of how far those protections extend when it comes to carrying across state lines.

Safety Tip: Before traveling with a firearm, always research and understand each state’s laws on carry permits, reciprocity, and transport to avoid legal trouble.