Supreme Court Declined Minnesota Permit Case
The court left in place an appeals court ruling that allows Minnesota to refuse to recognize out-of-state permits.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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The Supreme Court has declined to hear a challenge against Minnesota's policy of not recognizing out-of-state concealed carry permits. Consequently, a previous ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit remains in effect.
Why it matters
The decision preserves the state's authority to set its own standards for concealed carry permit reciprocity. It effectively ends a legal challenge that sought to force the recognition of permits from other states.
The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals decision remains the final ruling after the Supreme Court refused the petition for certiorari. The legal process began with a January 2025 lawsuit filed against Commissioner Bob Jacobson.
The players
Bob Jacobson
He serves as the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner and was the primary defendant in the lawsuit.
Liberty Justice Center
This public interest law firm filed the legal challenge against Minnesota on behalf of gun owners.
Jeffrey Johnson
He is the individual plaintiff who brought the lawsuit challenging the state's permit recognition policies.
The details
The lawsuit, filed by the Liberty Justice Center on behalf of Jeffrey Johnson, challenged the state's refusal to honor concealed carry permits issued in Georgia and Florida. With the Supreme Court declining to intervene, the lower court's decision in favor of the state stands.
Timeline
January 2025: The Liberty Justice Center sued the state of Minnesota.
August 24, 2026: The Liberty Justice Center filed a petition to the Supreme Court.
October 5, 2026: The Supreme Court officially declined to hear the case.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern of recent high-profile litigation regarding state firearm regulations across various federal circuit courts. The decision highlights the differing judicial outcomes, such as when the Tenth Circuit struck down a firearm waiting period in August 2025.
Minnesota residents and visitors will continue to see no change in current concealed carry permit reciprocity requirements. The ruling maintains existing state laws regarding the recognition of out-of-state permits.
The takeaway
The court's choice to not hear the case emphasizes the ongoing role of state-level administrative authority in managing firearm regulations. Gun owners should continue to verify reciprocity status for every state they intend to visit.
Further reading
Learn more about local legal developments in our Criminal Justice section.
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