Nebraska Recognizes Constitutional Carry—But Trend Will Slow

by
posted on June 11, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Nebraska Constitutional Carry Flag

A Constitutional Carry measure signed by Nebraska’s governor in late April will take effect sometime in September—the precise date being 90 days after its legislature adjourns sometime this month.

“Today, Nebraska joined 26 other states whose constituents and leaders recognize that law-abiding Americans should not have to ask for special government permission and pay additional fees in order to exercise their rights outside of the home,” said Randy Kozuch, executive director, NRA-ILA. “The NRA has worked tirelessly to protect the rights of Americans to defend themselves for decades, and we’re thrilled that this protection has now come to Nebraskans.”

Similar legislation was signed by Florida’s governor only weeks before. Law-abiding residents of legal age there will be able to carry without a permit beginning July 1.

It’s good news, bringing enrollment in the rights-recognizing club up to 27 of 50 states. But even dead voters understand the war will escalate and trend will slow as it approaches the perimeter of the "Blue Curtain’s"fortified defenses. Don’t expect the garrisons of liberalism along the west coast, and in New York, New Jersey, Maryland or Illinois to ask for membership applications anytime soon.

There are still several states working hard to join, though. Last month, Louisiana’s House passed a Constitutional Carry measure. State senators in South Carolina are debating one and are expected to vote on it soon.

The enrollment trend accelerated quickly and decisively, rightfully earning headlines here and elsewhere. It was only last year that Georgia became the 25th to join, preceded by Alabama, Ohio and Indiana by only a few weeks.

More than half of this great republic’s states already recognize Constitutional Carry. The roll currently includes Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming.

We’re keeping our fingers crossed the list will continue to grow at the same fast rate, but the bookies in Vegas—in a state that still hasn’t joined—are betting against it.

Latest

New Large-Format Pistols for 2026
New Large-Format Pistols for 2026

5 New Large-Format Pistols for 2026

There's been a huge surge in the large-format pistol category, and 2026 continues to showcase new models answering the wants and needs of today's firearm owners.

Short & Powerful: The EOTech Vudu 4-12x36 mm Super Short Riflescope

EOTech's ultra-compact 3-9x32 mm Vudu was a popular addition to the company's variable-powered riflescope line, and the new 4-12x36 mm Vudu ups the ante with new features in a still-compact package.

The Armed Citizen® May 11, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Ukraine Operators Use Drone Round to Defeat UAS

Ukrainian operators recently tested and defeated drones with the Drone Round—a purpose-built cartridge that requires no firearm modifications, no new equipment and no additional training.

From The Counter: The Gun Store Prime Directive

When visiting a firearm retailer, know when it’s appropriate to interject, and when you should keep quiet.

Red-Dot Occlusion Training: A Performance-Booster for You & Your Optic-Equipped Handgun

Red-dot occlusion is a passive technique that shooters can use to remain target-focused, thereby speeding up their performance with optic-equipped handguns.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.