Jason Wolford, et al., Petitioners v. Anne E. Lopez, Attorney General of Hawaii

Hawaii passed a law making it a crime for permit holders to carry handguns onto private property open to the public without express permission. Gun owners sued, arguing this "default rule" violates their Second Amendment rights to carry firearms for self-defense.

If the law stands, gun owners would need to look for signs or ask for permission before entering most businesses. This could significantly limit where people can legally carry guns in their daily lives, such as at stores or restaurants.

This case follows recent Supreme Court rulings that expanded gun rights and limited where states can ban firearms. It tests how far states can go in labeling areas as "sensitive places" where guns are prohibited.

The Court heard oral arguments on January 20, 2026, but has not yet issued a decision or a vote count.

The Court is deciding if states can require gun owners to get explicit permission before carrying weapons into businesses open to the public.

The justices are currently deliberating and writing their opinions behind closed doors. A final decision is expected by the end of the Court's term in early summer.

The law lists fifteen categories including bars, restaurants that serve alcohol, and public beaches. It also covers banks and parks where carrying a firearm is now restricted.

In many states, carry is allowed unless a "no guns" sign is posted. Hawaii's law flips this, making carry illegal unless the owner specifically says it is allowed.

The case focuses on the Second Amendment, which protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms. The Court must decide if Hawaii's restrictions overstep these protected rights.

The Ninth Circuit is the lower court that previously handled the legal challenge to Hawaii's law. The Supreme Court is now reviewing how that court evaluated these gun restrictions.

California enacted a similar law called Senate Bill 2 that also restricts where permit holders can carry. The Supreme Court's decision here will likely determine if California's restrictions can also remain in place.