Major Update to Maryland Concealed Carry Law: What the Kipke Case Means

info@smithcreekco.com (Brett R. Smith) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:43:48 GMT

Maryland’s handgun carry laws continue to evolve following the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen. One of the most important ongoing challenges is the case Kipke v. Moore, which directly affects where licensed individuals can legally carry a firearm in Maryland.

For anyone considering a Wear & Carry Permit or completing Handgun Qualification License (HQL) training, understanding this case is important because it shapes the real-world rules for lawful carry.

The Case: Kipke v. Moore

The lawsuit, Kipke v. Moore, challenges several parts of Maryland’s 2023 firearm legislation that created a long list of locations where concealed carry would be prohibited.

The plaintiffs argue that many of these restrictions violate the Second Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court in the Bruen decision.

What the Fourth Circuit Decided

In January 2026, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit issued a major ruling on the case.

The court:

Upheld Maryland carry bans in some places

The court allowed Maryland to restrict carry in certain “sensitive locations,” including:

Government buildings
Schools and school grounds
Healthcare facilities
Mass transit facilities
State parks and forests
Museums
Stadiums and amusement venues

These restrictions remain enforceable under current law.

Reinstated carry bans in other areas

The court reversed an earlier ruling that had blocked Maryland from banning carry in some locations, including:

Public demonstrations
Businesses that sell alcohol for on-site consumption (RESTAURANTS)

This means the state can continue enforcing those restrictions for now.

Struck down one major restriction

The court affirmed the lower court’s decision that Maryland cannot automatically ban carry in private businesses open to the public unless the owner gives consent.

Maryland’s original law required explicit permission from the property owner before a firearm could be carried in many public-facing private locations.

The court ruled that restriction could not be enforced.

This portion of the decision is one of the most significant outcomes of the case.

The Case Is Not Over

The plaintiffs plan to ask the Supreme Court of the United States to review the case.

A petition for certiorari is expected, and the mandate from the Fourth Circuit has been temporarily stayed while the courts consider next steps.

If the Supreme Court accepts the case, it could further define the limits of “sensitive place” firearm restrictions nationwide.

What This Means for Maryland Gun Owners

For Maryland residents:

You still need a Wear & Carry Permit to legally carry a handgun.
Many location-based restrictions remain in effect.
Some restrictions on private property have been struck down.
The legal landscape may change again if the Supreme Court reviews the case.

Because the law continues to evolve, it is critical for gun owners to stay informed and receive proper training.

Training Still Matters

At Smith Creek Co., our courses cover:

Maryland firearm law
Safe handgun handling
The HQL licensing process
Real-world legal responsibilities for firearm owners

Whether you are applying for an HQL or considering a Wear & Carry Permit, proper training ensures you understand both your rights and your responsibilities.

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