Arizona gun weapons laws are among the most permissive in America. It is a shall-issue, permit less carry state. This statement means that anyone over 21 years (not a prohibited possessor) can carry a weapon openly or concealed without a permit.
In recent years, Arizona concealed weapons laws have gone through significant changes with additional provisions that expand the rights of gun owners in the state. Today, the Sorenson Law Firm team will discuss the most important updates to Arizona concealed weapons laws.
Updates to Concealed Weapons Laws for Arizona Gun Owners
In April 2021, former governor Doug Ducey signed HB2111, a 2nd amendment Firearm Freedom Act into law. This new provision prevents the enforcement of any gun laws by state officials that do not agree with the current Arizona gun laws. This decision made Arizona a Second Amendment Sanctuary State.
This new addition further solidified the recent revision that allowed a person over the age of 21 years to legally possess a firearm and carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Arizona was the 21st state to adopt this constitutional carry law.
While some gun law advocates see this as a victory, others worry it could lead to more workplace violence and school shootings. The lack of a permit could make it easy for persons with mental illness or a history of violence to obtain and carry a firearm.
Further, law enforcement officers express concern about increased confrontations between armed individuals in public areas.
Notably, the prohibition of individuals from carrying a concealed weapon even if they are over 21 years remains the same, and it includes persons:
- With a prior felony conviction, on probation or parole
- Having a restraining order for harassment, stalking, or threatening a partner
- Considered fugitives
- Who are drug users and addicts
- With a history of mental illness
New Provisions for Carrying Concealed Weapons in Public Spaces
In addition to removing permit requirements for concealed carry, Arizona’s updated laws under HB 2551 include more provisions that expand the places you can carry a concealed weapon. In the revised provision, you can carry a concealed weapon in public spaces such as:
- Sidewalks
- Parks
- Libraries
- Public buildings
- Government offices
These changes have triggered controversy, with some saying that allowing guns in public spaces creates an unsafe environment for vulnerable individuals. On the contrary, supporters of the law argue that it is an important step taken to protect individual rights to self-defense.
Besides, Arizona gun laws still prohibit carrying a concealed weapon or firearm in places such as schools, businesses serving alcohol, polling grounds, federal building, and correctional facilities.
What Do the Updated Concealed Weapons Laws Mean to Gun Owners?
The updated concealed weapons law is excellent news for gun owners. However, they must be more vigilant in how, where, and when they carry their firearm. With the never-ending cases of school shootings and workplace violence, gun owners must be mindful of their concealed weapons to avoid causing more harm to innocent people.
If you have any legal challenges with your right to own and carry a concealed weapon, talk to our team of knowledgeable Tempe attorneys to help you resolve the matter with the relevant authorities.
