Surge in New Jersey’s Concealed Carry Permits Amid Historic Low in Shootings
TRENTON, NJ – A new report highlights a significant increase in concealed carry permits in New Jersey, revealing over 33,044 new permits issued. This marks a 3000% rise in citizens legally carrying firearms for self-defense in public spaces.
This increase coincides with Governor Phil Murphy’s announcement that New Jersey experienced its lowest shooting incidents in nearly 15 years in 2023.
New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan noted, “Legally purchased weapons are not predominantly used in crime in New Jersey. Our data shows that 80% of crime guns come from outside the state.”
The collection and analysis of this data aim to support the creation of policies that improve public safety and administrative efficiency in handgun permit processing. This effort also seeks to enhance transparency and public understanding of the impact of recent gun legislation and the N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Assoc. v. Bruen Supreme Court decision.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the role of law enforcement as key decision-makers in the permit application process. He stated that the new reporting procedures will provide insights into the effects of increased handgun carrying in the state and will help in formulating informed public safety policies.