Two gun rights organizations have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Virgin Islands, challenging the territory's restrictions on concealed carry for nonresidents. The lawsuit, reported by Fortune, is the second legal challenge to the territory's gun laws in recent months. The first was filed by the U.S. Justice Department in December.
The plaintiffs argue that the territory's law, which prohibits nonresidents from obtaining concealed carry permits, violates the Second Amendment. They seek to allow nonresidents to carry concealed firearms in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The lawsuit was filed in federal court.
The U.S. Virgin Islands, an unincorporated territory of the United States, has its own gun laws, which are often stricter than those on the mainland. The territory's government has not yet publicly responded to the new lawsuit.
Legal experts note that the case could have implications for gun rights in U.S. territories, which have limited self-governing authority. The outcome may also affect similar laws in other territories like Guam and Puerto Rico.
The Justice Department's earlier lawsuit also challenges the territory's gun regulations, focusing on different aspects. Both cases are pending in court. The new lawsuit adds to ongoing debates about gun rights and local governance in U.S. territories.