This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to establish the right to carry firearms without a permit while also providing an option for individuals to apply for an optional carry permit. The new legal language includes provisions that affirm the Second Amendment rights of individuals to carry firearms in public places, defined as property owned or controlled by governmental units or private property open to public use, with certain exceptions. Specifically, the bill introduces subdivisions that clarify that no permit is required for individuals not prohibited from possessing firearms, and it allows for the application of an optional permit to carry a pistol.

Additionally, the bill repeals several existing statutes related to permit requirements and modifies existing provisions regarding the application process, permit contents, and monitoring of permit holders. Notably, it removes the requirement for a permit to carry a pistol in public places and establishes a new automated database for tracking individuals issued optional permits. The bill also mandates annual reporting on the number of optional permits issued, categorized by various demographics, and outlines the exclusive criteria and procedures for obtaining these permits, ensuring that no additional requirements can be imposed by local authorities.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.714