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Bill > S1898


NJ S1898

NJ S1898
Allows honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard to carry handgun.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill allows honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard to carry a handgun at all times in this State. Under current law, certain retired law enforcement officers may annually apply for a permit to carry a handgun, until those officers reach age 75, at which time they are no longer eligible. The permit allows a retired law enforcement officer to carry a handgun at all times. This bill extends the right to carry a handgun to honorably discharged veterans provided the veteran is not otherwise disqualified from owning a firearm under current law. As is the case with a retired law enforcement officer, a veteran would be required to semi-annually qualify in the use of the handgun. The bill requires that prior to issuing a carry permit the Superintendent of State Police is to obtain a verification of service from a representative of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs certifying the veteran's length of service and the date on which the veteran was honorably discharged. Members of the United States Armed Forces receive extensive firearms and weapons training as part of their service to this country. The sponsor believes that men and women who have served this country honorably and are trained in the use of firearms should be entitled to carry a handgun at all times in this State to protect themselves and continue to provide safety to the community.

AI Summary

This bill allows honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard to carry a handgun at all times in the state, provided they are not otherwise disqualified from owning a firearm. Similar to retired law enforcement officers who can currently apply for a permit to carry a handgun, veterans will be required to semi-annually demonstrate proficiency in using the handgun. Before issuing a carry permit, the Superintendent of State Police will verify the veteran's service and honorable discharge through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This change is based on the belief that veterans, having received firearms training during their service, should be permitted to carry handguns for self-protection and community safety.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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