Philadelphia Breaking Pennsylvania’s Firearm Preemption Law Again!

True to its word, yesterday, the Philadelphia City Council unanimously passed Legislative File 100722-A, to close the so-called “Florida Gun Loophole.”  LF 100722-A states that Philadelphia will not recognize out-of-state carry licenses held by Pennsylvania residents, unless the individual also holds a Pennsylvania concealed carry license.  This proposal not only violates Pennsylvania’s state firearms preemption but also potentially turns law-abiding gun-owners who are living and traveling in Philadelphia into criminals.

Contrary to what is being suggested, there is no “Florida Gun Loophole.”  This fictional term makes it sound like anyone who applies for an out-of-state concealed carry permit is committing a crime.  This is not the case.  Florida and other states that allow non-residents to apply for a concealed carry permit must follow the state’s concealed carry law.  For example, Florida requires applicants to submit fingerprints, provide proof of competency with a firearm, pass a criminal and mental health background check and pay the appropriate fee.  In fact, the Pennsylvania Senate voted down a similar measure last year.

Clearly, LF 10072-A is a violation to Pennsylvania’s firearms preemption law and NRA will continue to oppose this action with every possible means.