Concealed Carry Ruling Could Have Little Impact on Nevada

A California court says the 2nd Amendment does not protect citizens from carrying a concealed weapon. The ruling upholds a California law, requiring gun permit applicants to provide a "good cause" for carrying a concealed weapon in public. 

The 7-4 decision on Thursday directly affects the rights of gun owners in many western states, but how does this effect Nevada? 

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has jurisdiction over Nevada. And there could be a possibility for changes in the future, but as of right now, Nevada may see little effect with the court decision made, because state law provides broad rights to carry guns.

The court made the ruling that the 2nd Amendment doesn't give you the right to carry a hidden weapon, but states can restrict or allow you to own a CCW. 

For example, in some California counties, you must prove to the sheriff that you work in a dangerous profession, or have been the victim of documented threats to obtain a concealed firearm.  

Michael Merric, a resident  from Truckee, California said, "I think in general, California is very difficult to have a gun. There are many more restrictions than elsewhere in the United States."

Matt Marquez, is a firearm trainer at H.O.G. Tactical in Reno, Nevada. He said, "They made it where you have to show cause. To where, in the state of Nevada, is that you just have to pass a background check and take an 8-hour course to be able to carry a CCW."

To get a CCW in the Silver State, you have to be 21 years old. But anyone with a history of mental illness, felony convictions or gang affiliations cannot get one. Misdemeanors in the last five years, like DUI or domestic violence would also disqualify an applicant.

And training is also required.

"Once you have that, then you have to go up to the sheriff's office in your county apply with the sheriff. They do a criminal background check, a fingerprint check, and then an application fee," said Marquez. 

According to the Department of Public Safety, there are about 104,000 people in Nevada who have concealed carry permits.