Indiana lawmakers recently enacted a “constitutional carry” law permitting law-abiding adults aged 18 and older to carry handguns without a license. This shift mirrors a nationwide trend, with 23 states now having similar laws in place since 2015, raising concerns among law enforcement officials about potential impacts on public safety.
Despite opposition from police, data shows that when these laws go into effect, states often experience a decline in firearm-related deaths in the immediate aftermath. However, experts warn that the relationship between permitless carry laws and gun violence is complex, with studies suggesting an association between increased gun access and rising homicide rates. As more states like Ohio and Alabama consider adopting similar legislation, the ongoing dialogue about the implications of these laws becomes increasingly critical.
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