The U.S. Senate came two votes short of passing a concealed carry reciprocity provision introduced by Republican Senators John Thune (SD) and David Vitter (R-LA).  The language would have allowed people who are authorized to carry in their home states to carry their firearms in other states, as well.  Even though the Thune amendment garnered more than a majority (58-39), a parliamentary maneuver required 60 votes to pass the measure. 

The Heller decision affirmed that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to keep and bear arms. The Thune/Vitter amendment will simply protect the right of citizens to carry firearms outside of their home state without violating the rights of the other states. Thus, the reciprocity language protects the principle of federalism while also protecting the Second Amendment rights of America’s lawful gun owners.

It was disappointing to fall two votes short on this amendment,” said GOA’s Executive Driector Larry Pratt.  “Constitutionally protected rights, including the right to self-defense, should not become null and void at the state line.”