Public Firearms Carriage and Public Opinion, National Gun Policy Survey, 2023

Objectives. To examine US public opinion on whether people should be allowed to carry firearms in "sensitive locations" (i.e., where firearm carry is not allowed, even for those with valid concealed carry permits). Methods. We used data from the 2023 National Gun Policy Survey to understand attitudes on gun carrying in potentially sensitive places. Respondents were asked to respond yes or no to allowing people to carry in various locations. We generated weighted proportions for prohibiting carry overall and by gun ownership among gun owners and among those who affirmed feeling safer if more people could legally carry guns. Results. More than 70% of respondents said guns should not be carried at bars, sports stadiums, or protests or rallies. Among gun owners, there was broad support for prohibiting gun carrying in these locations, even among those who would feel safer if more people could legally carry guns. Conclusions. Prohibiting gun carrying where alcohol is served or where there is a greater perception of conflict is broadly supported. Public Health Implications. These findings can inform evidence-based strategies to reduce firearm-related harm in sensitive public settings. (Am J Public Health. 2025;115(9):1472-1479. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308152).