Prohibiting the open and concealed carrying of guns in locations such as bars and childcare facilities is a critical step towards saving lives from gun violence. The gun lobby’s efforts to allow guns in more and more places where groups of people gather is a critical threat to public safety.

Background

All states place at least some restrictions on who, how, and where people can carry guns in public. While most states use a licensing process to address who can carry concealed, and in some cases, openly visible guns, all states restrict to varying degrees where licensed and unlicensed individuals may carry firearms.

Typically, states prohibit guns completely or partially in places where the presence of guns is particularly dangerous, such as where people consume alcohol, where tensions can flare, such as at sporting events or airports, or where there is a high danger that the presence of guns might chill First Amendment rights, such as at polling places and legislative buildings.

The gun lobby has claimed that “gun-free zones” invite mass shootings, but this claim has been thoroughly debunked. Since 1966, the overwhelming majority—nearly 90%—of all mass shootings resulting in six or more deaths have occurred wholly or partly in locations where civilian guns were allowed or there was armed security or law enforcement present.¹

Though many of the areas where states prohibit gun possession are public or government-owned property, some of the sensitive areas described above are private property open to the public. When guns are not particularly or unusually dangerous on private property, states generally allow owners to make decisions about whether or not to allow guns on their property. In recent years, however, state legislatures that are friendly to the gun lobby have begun chipping away at private property owners’ right to prohibit guns on their properties.

Summary of Federal Law

Federal law restricts gun possession on certain types of federal property and near schools, though this is subject to several exceptions:

Federal Facilities: Generally, federal law prohibits a person from knowingly possessing or attempting to possess a firearm in a federal facility, which is defined as “a building or part thereof owned or leased by the Federal Government, where Federal employees are regularly present for the purpose of performing their official duties.”²

Post Offices: Firearms are prohibited on postal property, including parking lots, whether carried openly or concealed.³

Airports and Airplanes: Firearms are prohibited in “sterile areas” of airports, which are those portions of an airport that provide passengers access to boarding aircraft and to which the access generally is controlled by Transportation Security Administration, or by an aircraft operator, through the screening of persons and property.⁴ Firearms are generally prohibited on airplanes except when an individual is transporting a weapon (except a loaded firearm) in baggage not accessible to a passenger in flight and the air carrier was informed of the presence of the weapon.⁵

Capitol Building: Federal law prohibits firearms in the federal Capitol building except as authorized by regulations prescribed by the Capitol Police Board.⁶

K—12 Schools: The Gun-Free School Zones Act (GFSZA) prohibits any person from knowingly possessing a firearm at a place the individual knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, is a “school zone.”⁷ A school zone is defined as in, or on the grounds of, or within a distance of 1,000 feet from the grounds of, a public, parochial or private school that provides elementary or secondary education.⁸ However, individuals with state-issued concealed carry permits are not prohibited by the GFSZA from possessing a gun in a school zone. For a more complete discussion of the GFSZA, visit our Guns in Schools Policy Page.⁹

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Where guns may not be prohibited

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan’s administration implemented regulations that prohibited guns in national parks and national wildlife refuges unless they were packed or kept in a manner that would prevent their ready use, such as being stored in a locked car trunk.¹⁰ Reversing that decision in 2008, Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn inserted an amendment into the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act that prevents the secretary of the interior from making or enforcing any laws that would restrict or prevent the carrying of firearms in national parks or wildlife refuges.

Today, any person may possess, carry, and transport concealed, loaded, and operable firearms within a national park or national wildlife refuge in accordance with the laws of the state in which the park or refuge is located.¹¹

Summary of State Law

All states prohibit the concealed or open carry of handguns or long guns in at least some areas. In many cases, a prohibition on guns in a particular location will apply to guns carried openly or concealed, regardless of whether an individual has a concealed carry permit (CCW). However, some states leave loopholes in which openly carried guns are permissible where concealed guns are not.

Government Buildings & Meetings

Some or all guns are off-limits in the following categories of government buildings and meetings in the listed states. It should be noted that there is significant overlap in the locations covered by different tables, and many inquiries about a state’s laws may require consulting several tables.

For example, if a state wants to restrict carrying firearms at meetings of the state legislature, it can make the restriction specific to meetings of the state legislature, restrict carry in the State Capitol, or restrict carry in all government buildings. A state that prohibits carry in all government buildings is unlikely to have laws specifically restricting carry in the State Capitol or in meetings of the legislature because they would be redundant, so that state would not appear in the “Meetings of the State Legislature” table, even though the state does have a law restricting carry in that situation.

Government-Owned Land

In addition to prohibiting guns in government buildings, many states also restrict carry on government-owned land, like parks and wildlife preserves.

Private Property Open to the Public

Many states restrict carrying firearms in certain types of private property where conflict may be likely, such as bars, or in places like banks, houses of worship, or polling places where firearms may raise additional concerns. Three states restrict carry in banks. Twenty-three states and the District of Columbia restrict carrying firearms in at least some establishments that serve alcohol. Thirteen states and DC restrict the carry of firearms in houses of worship. Ten states and DC restrict carrying firearms at polling places.

Healthcare and Childcare Facilities

The carrying of firearms is prohibited in K-12 schools in most states across the country, many states have gone further and prohibited carrying firearms in other areas where children are frequently present. Ten states and DC prohibit carrying firearms in at least some childcare facilities.

States have also taken steps to restrict the carry of firearms in healthcare facilities to ensure the safety of patients and caregivers. Seven states restrict carry in all hospitals, and 12 states restrict carry in at least some facilities providing mental health care.

Entertainment Facilities and other large gatherings

Despite the rhetoric of the gun lobby, guns in public make people more likely to be shot. In large gatherings of people, especially when emotions and tensions flare, the risk of violence increases when people are armed. A 2021 study found that demonstrations involving at least one armed individual tend to be violent or destructive 16% of the time and armed demonstrations are nearly six times as likely to turn violent or destructive compared to unarmed demonstrations. The study also found that armed protests account for less than 2% of the total number of demonstrations in the US, yet they account for 10% of all violent or destructive demonstrations.²⁵¹ Similarly, in amusement parks, sports venues, and other areas where large numbers of people congregate and emotions tend to run high, the presence of guns poses great risks.

Many states have taken steps to protect their residents by restricting the carry of firearms in these areas. Three states restrict carry in amusement parks. Twelve states and DC restrict carry of firearms in athletic events, stadiums or arenas. Five states restrict carry in areas where gambling is taking place. Eight states and DC restrict at least some forms of firearm carry at demonstrations and protests.

Outdoor Music Festivals

Washington prohibits concealed and open carry at outdoor music festivals.²⁸⁷

Private Property

Recognizing the sanctity of private property rights in the American legal system, state and local governments generally give private property owners the ability to determine whether guns are allowed on their personal and commercial properties.

Some states, however, have begun chipping away at the rights of owners to exclude guns from their properties if the properties are commercial or open to the public. States have encroached on private property rights by either requiring property owners to allow employees or customers to store their firearms in cars parked on the owner’s parking lot, or by immunizing property owners from liability for acts committed with firearms on their properties only if the owner allows firearms.

Parking Lots

In addition to requiring private property owners to allow employees or customers to store guns in their vehicles in the owner’s parking lots, many of the states listed below also require private property owners who wish to exclude guns from their properties to post notice of the exclusion according to specifications.²⁸⁸

Civil Liability Immunity as an Incentive to Allow Guns

In order to incentivize property owners to allow guns, some states have passed laws immunizing property owners from liability for any harms resulting from guns being allowed on their property.

• Idaho (Employers who allow firearms in vehicles are immune)³¹⁵
• Kansas (A property owner who allows concealed handguns or provides adequate signage and security to prevent the unauthorized carrying of concealed handguns is immune from liability for any wrongful act or omission relating to the use of such handguns)³¹⁶
• Oklahoma³¹⁷
• Tennessee³¹⁸
• Texas³¹⁹

Key Legislative Elements

• The features listed below are intended to provide a framework from which policy options may be considered. A jurisdiction considering new legislation should consult with counsel.
• All individuals are prohibited from carrying firearms in areas where the presence of guns is particularly dangerous or likely to have the effect of chilling free expression and free speech, such as in polling places, hospitals, government meetings, and courthouses.
• Resist the expansion of, or repeal, laws that require property owners to allow guns on privately-owned properties or that waive civil liability for property owners as an incentive to allow guns on private property.

1. Louis Klarevas, Rampage Nation: Securing America from Mass Shootings (Amherst, New York: Prometheus Books, 2016).[↩]
2. 18 USC § 930(a), (g)(1). The prohibition does not extend to “the lawful carrying of firearms or other dangerous weapons in a Federal facility incident to hunting or other lawful purposes.” § 930(d); see also https://www.dhs.gov/faq-regarding-items-prohibited-federal-property.[↩]
3. 39 CFR § 232.1; Bonidy v. United States Postal Serv., 790 F.3d 1121.[↩]
4. 49 CFR §§ 1540.111, 1540.5.[↩]
5. 49 USC § 46505.[↩]
6. 40 USC § 5104(e)(1)(A).[↩]
7. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(A).[↩]
8. 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(25)-(26).[↩]
9. 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(2)(A).[↩]
10. 48 Fed. Reg. 30, 252 (June 30, 1983), codified at 36 C.F.R. § 2.4(a)(2) and 49 Fed. Reg. 18,444 (April 30, 1984), codified at 50 C.F.R. § 27.42(e).[↩]
11. 73 Fed. Reg. 74,966, 74,972 (Dec. 10, 2008), amending 36 C.F.R. § 2.4, 50 C.F.R. § 27.42.[↩]
12. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306.[↩]
13. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-12-127.[↩]
14. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(19).[↩]
15. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 45-9-101(13), 97-37-7(2).[↩]
16. 2021 HB 102, amending Title 45, Chapter 8, Part 3.[↩]
17. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 202.3673.[↩]
18. Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.370(1)(b). A person may possesses a firearm in the passenger terminal of a commercial service airport if the firearm is unloaded and in a locked hard-sided container for the purposes of transporting the firearm as checked baggage in accordance with federal law. Id. at (3)(k).[↩]
19. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-287.01.[↩]
20. Ala. Code § 13A-11-61.2(a)(4). This prohibition includes the District Attorney office building.[↩]
21. Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-73-122 (a)(3)(D).[↩]
22. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.220(a)(4)(B).[↩]
23. Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-73-122 (a)(3)(D).[↩]
24. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12).[↩]
25. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
26. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b).[↩]
27. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(c)(1.5), 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 66/65.[↩]
28. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(16).[↩]
29. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N).[↩]
30. Me. Rev. Stat., tit. 17-A, § 1058(1), (2).[↩]
31. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.234d(1)(c), (2)(c).[↩]
32. Minn. Stat. § 609.66, subd. 1g(a).[↩]
33. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 45-9-101(13), 97-37-7(2).[↩]
34. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(4).[↩]
35. 2021 HB 102, amending Title 45 Chapter 8 Part 3.[↩]
36. N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 159:19(I).[↩]
37. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 29-19-11.[↩]
38. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
39. Nev. Admin. Code § 202.020(1)(3).[↩]
40. (N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 14-415.11(c), § 14-269.4.[↩]
41. Ohio Rev. Code §§ 2923.123.[↩]
42. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21 § 1277(A)(2).[↩]
43. Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.370(2).[↩]
44. 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 913.[↩]
45. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M).[↩]
46. S.D. Codified Laws § 22-14-23.[↩]
47. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1306(a).[↩]
48. Tex. Penal Code § 46.03 (a)(3).[↩]
49. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13, § 4016(b).[↩]
50. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-283.1.[↩]
51. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.300(1).[↩]
52. W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a(g)(1).[↩]
53. Wis. Stat. § 175.60(16).[↩]
54. Wyo. Stat. § 6-5-209. Firearms are allowed in courtrooms with permission from the presiding judge.[↩]
55. Cal. Penal Code § 171b (a)(1).[↩]
56. A narrow exception exists for those with open carry licenses: Where the population of the county is less than 200,000 persons according to the most recent federal decennial census, a license to carry loaded and exposed in only that county a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. Cal. Penal Code § 26150.[↩]
57. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(3), (5), (18).[↩]
58. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75-7c20(a), (b), (m).[↩]
59. Nev. Admin. Code § 202.020(1)(6).[↩]
60. N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-02-05(1).[↩]
61. Ohio Rev. Code § 2923.126(B)(7). Does not apply to a building that is used primarily as a shelter, restroom, parking facility, or rest facility.[↩]
62. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21 § 1277(A)(1).[↩]
63. Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 166.370 (1), (3)(d); § 166.360[↩]
64. S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-420(A).[↩]
65. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-283.2.[↩]
66. Wis. Stat. § 941.235(1).[↩]
67. Ala. Code § 13A-11-61.2(a)(1).[↩]
68. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306.[↩]
69. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12)(2).[↩]
70. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
71. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(16).[↩]
72. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N)(1).[↩]
73. Miss. Code. Ann. §97-37-7(2).[↩]
74. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(1).[↩]
75. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.11(c).[↩]
76. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(1)(a).[↩]
77. Nev. Admin. Code § 202.020(1)(1).[↩]
78. Ohio Rev. Code § 2923.126(B)(1).[↩]
79. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M).[↩]
80. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.300(1)(a).[↩]
81. Wis. Stat. § 175.60(16)(a)(1).[↩]
82. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t)(i).[↩]
83. Ala. Code § 13A-11-61.2.[↩]
84. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306.[↩]
85. Cal. Penal Code § 171b (a)(1), (b)(3).[↩]
86. A narrow exception exists for those with open carry licenses: Where the population of the county is less than 200,000 persons according to the most recent federal decennial census, a license to carry loaded and exposed in only that county a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. Cal. Penal Code § 26150.[↩]
87. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12).[↩]
88. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
89. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(16)(d).[↩]
90. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(5).[↩]
91. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(1)(a).[↩]
92. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M).[↩]
93. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(14); 46.035(c). (While Penal Code Section 46.15(b)exempts CCW license holders from the general restriction, Section 46.035(c) makes it unlawful for a license holder to carry a handgun in the room where an open government meeting is held if specified notices are provided).[↩]
94. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t)(iv).[↩]
95. Cal. Penal Code § 171c(a).[↩]
96. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12).[↩]
97. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
98. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(16)(d).[↩]
99. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 45-9-101(13); 97-37-7(2).[↩]
100. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(5).[↩]
101. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(1)(a).[↩]
102. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(14); 46.035(c). (While Penal Code Section 46.15(b)exempts CCW license holders from the general restriction, Section 46.035(c) makes it unlawful for a license holder to carry a handgun in the room where an open government meeting is held if specified notices are provided).[↩]
103. 2021 WA SB 5038.[↩]
104. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t).[↩]
105. Cal. Penal Code § 171.7.[↩]
106. A narrow exception exists for those with open carry licenses: “Where the population of the county is less than 200,000 persons according to the most recent federal decennial census, a license to carry loaded and exposed in only that county a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. Cal. Penal Code § 26150.[↩]
107. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-9-118.[↩]
108. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(a)(6).[↩]
109. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
110. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(c)(1.5),  430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(8).[↩]
111. 2011 Alabama OHJR 9.[↩]
112. Ark. Code Ann. §§ 5-73-122 (a)(1), 5-73-322(h).[↩]
113. Cal. Penal Code § 171c.[↩]
114. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.[↩]
115. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 2-1e(c).[↩]
116. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(a)(1), (10).[↩]
117. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
118. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b)(1).[↩]
119. Idaho Executive Order No. 2004-07.[↩]
120. Iowa Code § 8A.322(3).[↩]
121. Minn. Stat. § 609.66, subd. 1g(a).[↩]
122. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N).[↩]
123. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13).[↩]
124. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-328.[↩]
125. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 14-415.11(c), 14-269.4.[↩]
126. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 218A.905(8).[↩]
127. Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.370(1); 166.262(1).[↩]
128. S.C. Code Ann. § 10-11-320.[↩]
129. S.D. Codified Laws §§ 22-14-23, 22-14-24(5).[↩]
130. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-283.2.[↩]
131. 2021 WA SB 5038.[↩]
132. W. Va. Code § 61-6-19(b).[↩]
133. S.C. Code Ann. §§ 51-3-145(G); 23-31-210 (defining “concealable firearm” as one that may be carried openly). Does not apply in designated game management areas.[↩]
134. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21 § 1277(E). This applies to parks that are managed by public trust or a nonprofit entity.[↩]
135. Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14, § 4313. Hunting is exempt. Unloaded weapons stored in temporary lodging or conveyance are exempt when stored in a manner that will prevent their ready use.[↩]
136. Ga. Code Ann. § 12-3-10(o)(3).[↩]
137. Me. Stat., 17-A § 1057.[↩]
138. Minn. Stat. § 97A.091, subd.1(1). Does not apply to unloaded firearms that are broken down or stored in a case. When allowed by the commissioner, firearms used for hunting are exempt from this prohibition.[↩]
139. N.M. Code R. § 19.5.2.21. Exceptions to the general prohibition include: Licensed hunters during hunting season in designated areas and firearms carried in a private means of conveyance for lawful protection.[↩]
140. N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. .9, § 375.1(p).[↩]
141. 17 Pa. Code § 11.215(4).[↩]
142. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1311[↩]
143. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-287.4[↩]
144. Ala. Code § 9-11-304.[↩]
145. Ga. Code Ann. §§ 27-3-1.1.[↩]
146. Minn. Stat. § 97A.091, subd.1(1). Does not apply to unloaded firearms that are broken down or stored in a case. When allowed by the commissioner, firearms used for hunting are exempt from this prohibition.[↩]
147. Mont. Code Ann. § 87-5-401.[↩]
148. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 37-708(b), 37-712. Those traveling through on the highway or in trains are exempt. Those with special hunting permits are exempt.[↩]
149. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 17-2-12.[↩]
150. N.D. Cent. Code § 20.1-11-13(3).[↩]
151. Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-117(a).[↩]
152. Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 10, § 5204, 5226(c).[↩]
153. Wis. Stat. § 29.089(2), 29.091.[↩]
154. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 750.234d(1).[↩]
155. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(a).[↩]
156. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.220(a)(2).[↩]
157. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306(11). Arkansas also bans weapons in establishments that sell alcohol for consumption off premises Ark. Code Ann. § 3-4-403(21).[↩]
158. Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 4-229(A), 4-244(29)-(30).[↩]
159. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(a)(7).[↩]
160. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
161. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12)(a)(12).[↩]
162. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
163. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(8), 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(9). CCW permittees can only carry in restaurants that earn less than 50% of their income from alcohol.[↩]
164. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/10(c)(1).[↩]
165. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 244.125(1). This restriction does not apply in restaurants that seat at least 50 and earn at least 50% of their income from food.[↩]
166. La. Rev. Stat. § 14:95.5. CCW permittees may only carry in restaurants with a class A restaurant permit.[↩]
167. Me. Stat., 17-A § 1057(1).[↩]
168. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 28.425o(1), 750.234d.[↩]
169. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13). This prohibition applies to areas within an establishment which are primarily devoted to the service of alcohol.[↩]
170. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(7). Concealed carry permit holders are exempt from this prohibition in restaurants that can seat at least 50, and earn at least 51% of their income from food.[↩]
171. Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-328[↩]
172. N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-3(A).[↩]
173. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
174. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269.3.[↩]
175. N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-02-04.[↩]
176. Ohio Rev. Code §§ 2923.121(B)(1)(e), 2923.126(B)(4).[↩]
177. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21, § 1272.1; 2021 OK HB 646. Oklahoma amended its law in 2021, effective November 1, 2021, to repeal provisions that previously generally restricted people without valid handgun licenses from carrying firearms in any establishment where alcoholic beverages are consumed. The law passed in 2021 affirmatively states that it is lawful for a person to carry or possess firearms, whether openly or concealed, in any restaurant or other establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages where the sale of alcoholic beverages does not constitute the primary purpose of the business, although the law also states that it shall not be interpreted to authorize any person in actual physical possession of a weapon to consume alcoholic beverages in such an establishment.
     
     The new law prohibits people from carrying or possessing a firearm in any establishment where the sale of alcoholic beverages constitutes the primary purpose of the business, unless they are the owner or proprietor of the establishment or are an employee who has permission from the owner or proprietor to carry or possess a weapon in the scope and course of their employment.[↩]
178. S.C. Code Ann. §§ 16-23-465; 23-31-210 (defining “concealable firearm” as one that may be carried openly).[↩]
179. S.D. Codified Laws § 23-7-70. This prohibition includes establishments where alcohol is sold for consumption off the premises.[↩]
180. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(7); 46.035(b)(1). Texas law generally prohibits people from carrying firearms of any type on the premises of a bar or restaurant that has a liquor license, if the business makes at least 51% of its income from the sale or service of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption. Texas generally prohibits open carry of handguns in public spaces as well, unless the handgun is carried in a holster; open carry of long guns is generally permitted, subject to the restriction on firearms in liquor establishments that derive at least 51% of their income from on-beverage alcohol consumption.[↩]
181. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.012[↩]
182. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.300(1).[↩]
183. Wis. Stat. § 941.237(2).[↩]
184. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t)(vii).The prohibition applies to areas of establishments primarily devoted to dispensing alcohol.[↩]
185. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306(15).[↩]
186. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(b).[↩]
187. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
188. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b)(4).[↩]
189. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N)(8).[↩]
190. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. §§ 28.425o(1)(e), 750.234d(1).[↩]
191. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13).[↩]
192. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(14). Firearms stored in vehicles are exempt.[↩]
193. N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-02-05(1), (2)(l). The primary religious leader or governing body of a place of worship may approve an individual or group of individuals to carry firearms “through a policy or any other means,” if such individuals have a CCW permit or are otherwise eligible to carry handguns under North Dakota’s permitless carry law.[↩]
194. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(a), (c). The governing body can only grant permission to carry firearms to security personnel who have concealed carry licenses. If the place of worship allows armed security, they must provide written notice to the congregation.[↩]
195. Ohio Rev. Code § 2923.126(B)(6).[↩]
196. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M); S.C. Code Ann. § 16-23-20(12).[↩]
197. Utah Code Ann. §§ 76-10-530, 53-5-710.[↩]
198. While Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-283 prohibits firearms in houses of worship absent a “good and sufficient reason,” a controlling opinion of the attorney general states that carrying a weapon for personal protection constitutes a good and sufficient reason 2011 Va. AG LEXIS 23.[↩]
199. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102(A)(11).[↩]
200. Cal. Elec. Code § 18544(a).[↩]
201. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(5).[↩]
202. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
203. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(12)(6).[↩]
204. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
205. Ga. Code Ann. §§ 21-2-413(i).[↩]
206. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N)(4); § 18:1461.7(c)(3).[↩]
207. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13).[↩]
208. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(2).[↩]
209. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
210. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 3505.21.[↩]
211. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M)(3).[↩]
212. Tex. Penal Code § 46.03(a)(2).[↩]
213. Va. Code Ann. §§ 24.2-604(a); 24.2-671; 24.2-802.1.[↩]
214. Alaska Stat. § 11.61.220(a)(4)(A). Firearms enclosed in the trunk of or in a closed container contained within a motor vehicle are exempt if the person in possession of the firearm(s) is 21 or over.[↩]
215. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(a)(2).[↩]
216. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
217. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(2). Includes parking areas. The operator of a childcare facility in a family home may own or possess a firearm if no child under child care at the home is present in the home or if the firearm in the home is stored in a locked container when a child under childcare at the home is present.[↩]
218. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(16).[↩]
219. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. §§ 28.425o(1), 750.234d(1). [↩]
220. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(11). Operators of childcare facilities in a family home are exempt.[↩]
221. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 202.3673, 202.265. The owners of childcare facilities are exempt if they reside in the home and follow all applicable firearms laws.[↩]
222. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M)(6).[↩]
223. S.C. Code Ann. §§ 16-23-20, 23-31-217.[↩]
224. Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.1 .[↩]
225. Idaho Admin. Code r. 16.06.02.734.[↩]
226. 465 Ind. Admin. Code 2-9-80(b)(3), 2-10-79(b)(3) , 2-11-80(b)(3), 2-12-78(b)(3), 2-13-77(b)(3).[↩]
227. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. § 28.425o(1)(b).[↩]
228. N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. 18, § 441.19(f).[↩]
229. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(7).[↩]
230. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. §§ 28.425o(1), 750.234d(1) .[↩]
231. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1 (17). Firearms are allowed in vehicles on premises.[↩]
232. 2021 HB 102, amending Title 45, Chapter 8, Part 3.[↩]
233. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
234. Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.370.[↩]
235. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M).[↩]
236. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(11); 46.035(b)(4).[↩]
237. Ala. Code § 13A-11-61.2(3).[↩]
238. Fla. Stat. § 394.458.[↩]
239. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
240. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b)(5).[↩]
241. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(7).[↩]
242. Minn. Stat. § 243.55, subd. 1.[↩]
243. Miss. Code Ann. § 41-19-261(c).[↩]
244. N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. 14, §§ 542.5(a), 45.1.[↩]
245. Ohio Rev. Code § 2923.126(B)(1).[↩]
246. Utah Code Ann. § 76-8-311.3(4)(d).[↩]
247. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(1), (a)(12); 46.035(b)(4), (b)(6).[↩]
248. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. §§ 9.41.300(1)(c), 72.23.300.[↩]
249. Wis. Stat. § 175.60(16)(5).[↩]
250. Wyo. Stat. § 6-5-209.[↩]
251. Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund and the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, “Armed Assembly: Guns, Demonstrations, and Political Violence in America,” Aug. 23, 2021, https://everytownresearch.org/report/armed-assembly-guns-demonstrations-and-political-violence-in-america/.[↩]
252. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(20).[↩]
253. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(13). Firearms are allowed if secured in a vehicle.[↩]
254. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(13); 46.035(b)(5).[↩]
255. Ala. Code § 13A-11-61.2(a)(5),(6).[↩]
256. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306.[↩]
257. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07(8).[↩]
258. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
259. Fla. Stat. § 790.06(9).[↩]
260. Fla. Stat. § 790.053(1).[↩]
261. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(8), A more specific prohibition on carrying firearms in stadiums and at athletic events applies to concealed carry permittees: 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65 (a)(17).[↩]
262. Mich. Comp. Laws Serv. §§ 750.234d(1), 28.425o(1)(c). The section restricting concealed carry prohibits only concealed handguns. An additional restriction in this section prohibits concealed handguns at ‘entertainment facilities’ with a capacity of at least 2,500.[↩]
263. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13).[↩]
264. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(16). Firearms stored in vehicles are exempt.[↩]
265. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
266. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21 § 1277(A)(4).[↩]
267. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-31-215(M)(5).[↩]
268. See our page on Guns in Schools for more information.[↩]
269. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.03(a)(8); 46.035(b)(2).[↩]
270. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(t).[↩]
271. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. 66/65(a)(16).[↩]
272. 68 Ind. Admin. Code 1-7-1.[↩]
273. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.1(12). Guns stored in vehicles are exempt.[↩]
274. N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-02-04.[↩]
275. Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 21 § 1277(A).[↩]
276. Ala. Code § 13A-11-59.[↩]
277. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306 (17).[↩]
278. D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2509.07 (a) (14).[↩]
279. D.C. Code Ann. § 22-4504(a).[↩]
280. 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/24-1(a)(8).[↩]
281. La. Rev. Stat. § 40:1379.3(N).[↩]
282. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-208.[↩]
283. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-101(13).[↩]
284. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441.[↩]
285. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-277.2.[↩]
286. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9.41.300 as amended by 2021 WA SB 5038.[↩]
287. Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 70.108.150.[↩]
288. See, Neb. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 69-2441(2).[↩]
289. Ala. Code § 13A-11-90(b).[↩]
290. Alaska Stat. § 18.65.800(a).[↩]
291. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 12-781(A).[↩]
292. Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-306(18)(B); 11-5-117.[↩]
293. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 790.251(4)(a).[↩]
294. Ga. Code Ann. § 16-11-135(b).[↩]
295. 430 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 66/65(a-10), (b).[↩]
296. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-47-2-1(d)(2).[↩]
297. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75-7c10(b)(1).[↩]
298. Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.106(1).[↩]
299. La. Rev. Stat. §§ 32:292.1(A), (B), (C). If possession of a firearm on the property is otherwise prohibited by state or federal law, then firearms are still prohibited in parking lots. Private parking lots can restrict gun in cars if they restrict general access to the parking lot and provide other alternatives for firearm storage or parking.[↩]
300. Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 26, § 600(1).[↩]
301. Minn. Stat. §§ 624.714, subd. 17(c), (d).[↩]
302. Miss. Code Ann. § 45-9-55(1), (2).[↩]
303. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.030(6).[↩]
304. Neb. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 69-2441(3). Does not apply in parking areas for zones where carrying a gun is federally prohibited.[↩]
305. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 14-269.2(k), 14-269.4(6).[↩]
306. N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-02-13(1)(a).[↩]
307. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. §§ 2923.1210(A).[↩]
308. Okla. Stat. tit. 21, §§ 1290.22(B), 1277(B).[↩]
309. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1313, 50-1-312(b).[↩]
310. Tex. Lab. Code § 52.061. See also, Tex. Educ. Code § 37.0815.[↩]
311. Utah Code Ann. § 34-45-103. Firearms can be prohibited in parking areas if the proprietor provides gun storage or an alternative parking location within a reasonable distance.[↩]
312. Va. Code Ann. § 15.2-915(A).[↩]
313. W. Va. Code §§ 8-12-5a(c)(3), 61-7-14(d).[↩]
314. Wis. Stat. § 943.13(1m)(c).[↩]
315. Idaho Code § 5-341.[↩]
316. Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75-7c10(c).[↩]
317. Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1290.22(F).[↩]
318. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1325.[↩]
319. Tex. Lab. Code § 52.063.[↩]