As election season approaches, many responsibly armed Americans are curious about whether they can bring their legally concealed carry firearm to polling places. Laws vary widely from state to state, and it’s important to be aware of the regulations where you live. Here’s a detailed look at which states allow concealed carry at polling places and those that prohibit it.
REMEMBER: Just because a state allows you to carry a firearm at a polling place does not mean all polling places are legal for carry. If a polling place is in a building that is “off limits” to carrying, such as a school or government building, those laws still apply.
States Without Specific Statutes Prohibiting Firearms at Polling Places
The following states do not have specific statutes that prohibit carrying firearms at polling places. However, other location-specific restrictions (e.g., schools or government buildings) may still apply:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Utah
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States With Gun Bans at Polling Places
The following states have statutes that prohibit carrying firearms at polling places:
- Arizona
- California
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia (D.C.)
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
States Where Firearms Are Legal at Polling Places with a Permit
In these states, you may carry a firearm at a polling place if you have the appropriate permit:
- Colorado
- Illinois
Gun Bans at Polling Places: What’s Changed?
Though rare, there is a history of political violence at the ballot box. Fear, along with an uptick since the 2020 election in harassment and threats of violence toward poll workers and instances of voter intimidation in the 2022 midterms led to policymakers attempting to address the concerns.
In recent years, several states have enacted or strengthened bans on carrying firearms at polling places. For example, in 2023, California expanded its existing ban with the passage of SB 2. Similarly, in March 2024, New Mexico introduced a law banning the open carry of firearms within 100 feet of polling locations and 50 feet of ballot drop boxes. However, this law provides an exemption for concealed carry permit holders.
In Virginia, the legislature passed a bill to extend gun-free zones around polling facilities, but it was vetoed by the Republican governor in March 2024. Other state legislatures are also debating new restrictions on firearms at or near polling places and voting sites.
Concealed Carry and Election Day
Before carrying your firearm to your voting location, check your state laws as well as specific polling place regulations. The laws surrounding this issue are subject to change, especially as many states consider new legislation.
Your Voice, Your Vote
By Beth Alcazar
As we approach the 2024 election season, it’s crucial for responsible gun owners to recognize the power of their voice … and their vote. Our protected, Second Amendment right is constantly under scrutiny, and the outcome of this election could significantly impact our ability to defend ourselves and our loved ones.
Your Vote Matters
With upwards of 22.3 million new first-time gun owners since 2020, the landscape of gun ownership in America has shifted dramatically. These growing numbers of new gun owners, along with long-time responsibly armed Americans, have the potential to make a substantial impact at the ballot box. However, this potential can only be realized if we take action. And while it may be easy to feel like a single vote doesn’t count, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, in many swing states, elections can be decided by razor-thin margins. Thus, every vote cast in support of pro-Second Amendment candidates could be the difference between preserving our rights and facing further restrictions.
Know Your Candidates
Of course, before heading to the polls, it’s essential to research the candidates’ stances on gun rights. Be sure to look beyond party lines and public statements and focus on their voting records regarding the Second Amendment. Don’t give any credit to prepared words and empty promises. Remember that actions truly do speak louder than words, especially in politics.
Get Involved
Also, it’s important to know that voting is only one piece of a much bigger puzzle. Consider volunteering for pro-2A candidates or joining organizations that support gun rights. And always be ready to share factual information about candidates’ positions with friends and family members who may be on the fence. Every conversation has the potential to assist an undecided voter.
The Future of Our Rights
The 2024 election undoubtedly has the potential to shape the future of gun rights in America. From potential Supreme Court nominations to federal and state legislators, the officials we elect can have a profound impact on our ability to exercise our right to protect what we love. And as responsible gun owners, we have a duty to protect not only ourselves and our families but also the constitutional right that allows us to do so.
So this election season, let’s make a difference. Register to vote, stay informed and cast your ballot for candidates who will defend our right to keep and bear arms. Remember that in the world of self-defense, preparation is paramount. And this same principle applies to preserving our rights! So don’t wait until Election Day to start thinking about the issues. Start now, stay vigilant and be ready to make your voice—and your vote—count for our future, for our families and for the Second Amendment.
