Shall Issue vs. May Issue

“Shall Issue” and “May Issue” are terms used to describe how authorities grant firearm permits. “Shall Issue” means that if an applicant meets specific legal requirements, the issuing authority **must** issue the permit—there’s a clear obligation. “May Issue” means the authority **has discretion**; they can grant or deny a permit based on their judgment or specific criteria, even if the applicant meets basic requirements. Essentially, “Shall Issue” is automatic if criteria are met, while “May Issue” allows more discretion and varies by jurisdiction.