Why Some Store Owners Ban Concealed Carry Permit Holders
Many store owners across the United States make it a policy to ban concealed carry permit holders from their premises. This decision doesn't arise by accident but often serves specific purposes such as appeasing anti-gun customers and making a political statement. This article delves into the reasons behind such bans and provides a legal context within the state of Texas.
Reasons for Banning Concealed Carry Permit Holders
A common reason for such bans is to cater to a customer demographic that feels more comfortable in the absence of firearms. Many individuals who shop in these stores have personal reasons such as being parents or simply disliking guns. They believe that the presence of a firearm with a concealed carry permit holder increases their risk of being shot, even though statistics indicate that permit holders are less likely to shoot someone than those without a permit.
Another reason for these bans is to make a strong political statement. Store owners who post "no guns" signs often do so to demonstrate their stance on gun control. They know that any potential criminals or violent individuals are unlikely to respect these signs and will continue to pose a threat regardless. It’s a message to the broader community rather than a practical security measure.
Legal Context in Texas
Texas is an interesting case in the realm of concealed carry laws. As of now, about 95% of the population is not currently allowed to carry a concealed weapon outside their vehicles or on their property. This is because Texas is not yet a "constitutional carry" state, where individuals with a valid permit can carry concealed weapons in public spaces. In contrast, states like Vermont and Arizona, and parts of Chicago and Baltimore, have more liberal gun laws, though the latter are not constitutional carry states.
Businesses in Texas can post "no guns" signs, which must comply with specific legal requirements. These signs must reference the penal codes 30.06 and 30.07, which pertain to concealed and open carry, respectively. These codes ensure that the signs are legitimate and enforceable. For example, if a store posts a sign that reads "no concealed weapons" followed by specific legal citations, they are only advising a small percentage of the population—4-5%—that have concealed carry permits that they are not welcome on their premises. Notably, many store owners assume they are banning all gun owners, but the signs are only legally addressing permit holders.
These "no guns" signs are often posted by County and City Clerks. When asked, they justify their actions by stating that they are prioritizing customer safety. However, the actual impact of these signs is minimal, as the vast majority of the population adheres to gun laws and ignores these signs. Open carry signs, which are rarer, are also posted and can be more alarming to those who fear guns.
Common Perceptions and Misunderstandings
Store owners who ban concealed carry permit holders often attribute their decision to a fear of guns, believing that concealed weapons can go off accidentally or that the gun owner is potentially someone dangerous. However, this fear is often unfounded. The vast majority of concealed carry permit holders are responsible and law-abiding citizens. Statistics consistently show that permit holders are less likely to shoot someone than those without a permit. Still, this fear persists among many store owners, leading to policies that limit the presence of firearms in public spaces.
In conclusion, the decision to ban concealed carry permit holders from stores is multifaceted. While some owners do it to appease customers and make political statements, the actual impact on crime and safety is negligible. Legal frameworks and common misconceptions about gun ownership contribute to the prevalence of these policies, which often serve more as symbolic than practical measures.