Relating to concealed carry firearms, may issue means that in addition to meeting the requirements for a concealed carry permit set by state law, the issuing authority has discretion over whether to issue a concealed carry permit. Some may issue states require an applicant to show good cause for obtaining the permit, to provide character references, or to undergo a mental health evaluation. See the Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association (NYSRPA) v. Bruen (2022).
Compare to: shall issue, and see this explanation of Bruen's impact on concealed carry.
[Last updated in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]