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The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case that could reshape where Americans can legally carry guns, and shopping malls are right at the center of the debate.
At issue is a Hawaii law that bans people with concealed carry permits from bringing handguns onto private property open to the public, like malls, stores, or hotels, unless the property owner specifically allows it. Right now, that means even if someone has a legal permit, they can’t just walk into the mall with their weapon.
Gun rights advocates are challenging the law, arguing that it violates the Second Amendment. They’re pointing to the Court’s 2022 Bruen ruling, which already expanded gun carry rights in public spaces. If the challengers win, it could mean people with permits could carry their guns into malls and businesses unless the owners clearly say “no.”
On the flip side, if the Court upholds Hawaii’s restrictions, it could allow states to continue keeping tighter rules on where guns can and cannot go.
The decision is expected to have ripple effects far beyond Hawaii, potentially setting a nationwide standard on whether guns are allowed in malls, shops, and other private businesses open to the public.
For now, the justices will hear arguments and decide later this term, but the outcome could permanently change how Americans experience everyday places like malls.
