Maryland: Anti-Self-Defense Legislation Passed out of House Committee

Friday afternoon, the House Appropriations Committee considered and reported out House Bill 159.  It is important that you contact your Delegate and politely urge them to oppose House Bill 159 when it comes up for a vote.

House Bill 159, sponsored by Delegate Ben Barnes, would ban the possession or carrying of firearms on college campuses.  Those with wear and carry permits do not present a threat to public safety, as they are one of the most law-abiding segments of the population.  Current law already allows each university to set its own policy regarding the carrying or possession of firearms.  This legislation creates criminal penalties where current law allows universities to impose civil or academic sanction.

This legislation imposes extreme penalties, including fines, up to 3 years in prison, as well as the potential loss of your Second Amendment rights.  A simple mistake in transiting a college campus could lead to the lifetime loss of a constitutional right.  Maryland citizens who are otherwise authorized to carry a firearm for self-defense will be prohibited from doing so and must make the choice between defending their lives and risking the loss of their firearms rights entirely in order to attend classes or events on campus.  

Again, please click the “Take Action” button above to contact your Delegate and politely urge them to oppose House Bill 159.