NRA Joins Fight Against Maryland's Out-of-State Permit Ban
The National Rifle Association joined seven firearms rights organizations in petitioning the Maryland Supreme Court to hear Duvall v. State of Maryland, a case directly attacking Maryland's blanket rejection of concealed carry permits from other states. The amicus brief, filed July 2026, represents a coordinated legal push to force Maryland to recognize reciprocal carry rights for lawful gun owners traveling through the state.
Key Details
Co-filers included the Second Amendment Foundation, Maryland Shall Issue, California Rifle & Pistol Association, Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, Second Amendment Law Center, Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, and the Cato Institute. Maryland currently recognizes zero reciprocal carry permits—even from states with similar permitting standards. The case targets the state's statutory refusal to honor out-of-state credentials, forcing permit holders to either disarm or commit a felony when crossing state lines.
Why It Matters for Gun Owners
Maryland is one of the most hostile jurisdictions for reciprocal carry. A Virginia permit holder, a Pennsylvania resident, or anyone licensed in a constitutional carry state who transits Maryland faces criminal liability for carrying lawfully in their home state. This creates a practical trap for interstate travel—you cannot legally exercise your rights without dumping your firearm in another state or facing charges. The brief asks the Maryland Supreme Court to reconsider whether this absolute ban survives New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, which established that firearm regulations must have historical grounding. Maryland's current position—zero exceptions, no reciprocal recognition—is difficult to defend under post-Bruen scrutiny.
DownRange Analysis
Maryland's blanket rejection of out-of-state permits is a test case for whether states can simply ignore Bruen's historical tradition framework by claiming public safety. The state issued fewer than 3,000 active carry permits statewide before Bruen; Maryland actively discourages civilian carry. The amicus coalition signals this case could reach appellate courts with real teeth. If Maryland loses, it forces recognition reciprocity. If it wins, expect similar challenges in New York, California, and New Jersey. Gun owners in neighboring states should monitor this closely—the outcome affects your ability to travel armed legally.
