Monday Map: The Right to Carry a Gun

To follow up on the lively discussion of guns and crime this weekend, today's map shows the progress of laws allowing the concealed carry of weapons across the U.S. The map above tells the story, 48 states allow some time of concealed weapons. Only Illinois and Wisconsin don't allow any form of concealed carry. Click on the map for an animation showing the spread of these laws across the country over the last two decades.

Concealed carry laws seem to have broad support from state legislatures and the public. But the same question from Saturday's post still stands. Do guns reduce crime? Do guns in purses and holsters and cars reduce crime?

The National Rifle Association says violent crime is lower in states with concealed carry laws, the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence says it's higher.

These stats have been massaged and selectively cited by both sides. The NRA's argument comes back to right: we have the right to protect ourselves, we have the right to carry guns wherever we want.

The Brady Campaign seeks to impose controls without revoking our right. The group seeks to restrict guns from churches, schools, and the workplace. They also want to ensure that people with carrying licenses take safety courses and undergo a mental health check.

We can impose strict restrictions on gun ownership and carrying without taking away a right. Background checks and safety classes aren't too much to ask.