The Safe Bases Act of 2025 would require the Secretary of Defense to create a centralized DoD authority to issue concealed-carry permits to certain active-duty service members. Within one year of enactment, this single DoD element would issue permits to “covered members” who are active duty and not federally prohibited from possessing firearms (as defined by 18 U.S.C. § 922). The permits would authorize these members to carry a concealed firearm on any military installation. The bill does not detail how training, background checks beyond the 922 prohibition, or other eligibility criteria would be handled, nor does it specify how the permits would interact with existing DoD policies or state laws. The bill, introduced in the House by Rep. Steube and referred to the Committee on Armed Services, creates a federal framework for concealed carry on bases but leaves many operational details unspecified.
Key Points
- 1Establishes a single DoD element to issue concealed-carry permits to military personnel.
- 2Timeframe: the DoD must establish this authority within one year after enactment.
- 3Eligibility: “covered members” are active-duty armed forces members who are not prohibited from possessing a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922.
- 4Scope of permit: permits would authorize carrying a concealed firearm on any military installation.
- 5Details missing: the bill does not specify permitting procedures, training requirements, background-check processes beyond § 922, reciprocity, or enforcement mechanisms.