Major Updates to Concealed Carry Laws in the United States (2026)

   Concealed carry laws across the United States are evolving rapidly. Since the Supreme Court’s landmark Bruen decision in 2022, courts, states, and lawmakers have been actively redefining where and how Americans can legally carry firearms.

In 2025 and 2026, several major court cases and legal challenges have the potential to reshape concealed carry rights nationwide. Here’s a breakdown of the most important developments every responsible firearm owner should be aware of.

The Bruen Decision Still Drives Everything

    The foundation for today’s legal changes is the 2022 Supreme Court ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen.

That decision ruled that Americans have a constitutional right to carry firearms in public for self-defense and eliminated “may-issue” permitting systems that required applicants to show special need. 

Since then, many states passed new laws restricting carry in certain locations, triggering lawsuits across the country.

Courts are now determining how far states can go in limiting carry without violating the Constitution.

Major Supreme Court Case Could Change Carry Rules Nationwide

   One of the most important current cases is Wolford v. Lopez, now before the U.S. Supreme Court.

This case challenges a Hawaii law that makes it illegal for concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on private property open to the public unless the owner gives explicit permission. 

This type of restriction—sometimes called a “default ban”—could have nationwide impact depending on how the Court rules.

During oral arguments, Supreme Court justices appeared skeptical of broad bans preventing lawful carriers from carrying in many common places. 

A final decision is expected by summer 2026 and could significantly expand—or limit—carry rights across the country.

Third Circuit Cases Could Affect New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware

   The Third Circuit Court of Appeals is currently hearing major cases challenging concealed carry restrictions, including sensitive location bans.

These cases could determine where firearms can legally be carried and clarify how courts interpret the Second Amendment moving forward. 

In New Jersey specifically, gun owners are continuing to challenge laws banning carry in dozens of locations designated as “sensitive places.” 

These decisions will directly affect residents in:

• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• Delaware
• U.S. Virgin Islands

Appeals Courts Are Issuing Conflicting Decisions

   Courts across the country have issued mixed rulings on concealed carry restrictions.

For example:

• A federal appeals court ruled that California’s broad ban on open carry was unconstitutional, affecting most of the state’s population.  
• Other courts have upheld bans on carrying firearms in certain sensitive places like schools and government buildings.  

This conflicting guidance makes Supreme Court decisions even more important in the coming year.

Federal Reciprocity Laws Could Change Carry Nationwide

   Lawmakers have also introduced federal legislation that could allow concealed carry permits to be recognized nationwide.

The proposed Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act would require states to recognize permits issued by other states. 

If passed, this would significantly expand carry rights for Americans traveling between states.

Non-Resident Carry Rights Are Also Being Challenged

   Recent legal victories have challenged laws restricting carry rights for out-of-state residents.

One case successfully challenged restrictions that prevented non-residents from carrying firearms, arguing that Second Amendment rights do not disappear when crossing state lines. 

This could eventually improve reciprocity and travel rights for permit holders.

Courts Are Still Defining “Sensitive Places”

   The biggest legal question currently being debated is where carry can legally be restricted.

States have attempted to ban carry in locations such as:

• Parks
• Restaurants serving alcohol
• Entertainment venues
• Public transit
• Private businesses open to the public

Courts are now deciding whether these restrictions comply with constitutional standards.

This issue will likely define concealed carry law for the next decade.

What This Means for Responsible Gun Owners

   The key takeaway is simple: concealed carry laws are actively evolving.

Important points to remember:

• Carry laws vary significantly by state
• Court decisions are changing restrictions regularly
• Future Supreme Court rulings may expand carry rights further
• Staying informed is critical for lawful carry

The legal environment today is very different than it was just a few years ago—and more changes are likely coming.

717 Holsters Supports Responsible, Lawful Carry

At 717 Holsters, we believe in responsible firearm ownership and staying informed.

Every holster we build is designed for:

• Secure retention
• Reliable concealment
• Comfortable everyday carry
• Durable, American-made performance

We are committed to supporting responsible concealed carry with equipment you can trust.

Final Thoughts

   The next 12 months could bring some of the most important concealed carry rulings in modern history.

Between Supreme Court decisions, federal legislation, and ongoing lawsuits, the legal framework surrounding concealed carry continues to evolve.

Responsible gun owners should stay informed and ensure they follow all applicable laws.