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Bill

HB 365

Firearms - Right to Purchase, Own, Possess, and Carry

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Robin Grammer

Maryland bill would expand individual rights to purchase, own, possess, and carry firearms, potentially overriding state's restrictive gun regulations.

Hearing 2/04 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 365

Legislative bill overview

HB 365 establishes or reinforces constitutional protections for individuals to purchase, own, possess, and carry firearms in Maryland. The bill appears designed to strengthen Second Amendment protections at the state level, though specific provisions are not detailed in the available information. This represents a significant counterposition to Maryland's existing restrictive firearms regulations, among the strictest in the nation.

Why is this important

Maryland currently has comprehensive firearms licensing requirements, assault weapons bans, and other restrictions that significantly limit gun ownership and carry rights. This bill would directly conflict with existing state law if it removes or weakens those regulations. The outcome could substantially reshape Maryland's approach to firearms policy and influence how residents access and carry firearms legally.

Potential points of contention

  • Conflict with existing Maryland law: The bill would likely require repealing or invalidating multiple existing statutes regulating firearms sales, licensing, and ownership restrictions
  • Public safety concerns: Gun safety advocates will argue that weakening regulations increases risks of gun violence, accidents, and misuse, citing data on states with stricter vs. looser regulations
  • Constitutional interpretation: There will be disagreement over how broadly the Second Amendment should be interpreted and whether it protects unlimited individual access to all firearm types
  • Urban vs. rural divide: Urban areas with higher crime rates may strongly oppose the bill, while rural communities may support expanded gun rights

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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