Carrying a Firearm Under the Influence in Connecticut

Statutory Prohibition

Connecticut law explicitly prohibits carrying a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-206d

Carrying of firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drug prohibited.

Under CGS § 53-206d, it is illegal to carry a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug.

Classification and Penalties

• Offense Classification: Class B Misdemeanor
• A Class B misdemeanor in Connecticut carries a potential penalty of up to 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Key Points for Permit Holders

• This prohibition applies to anyone carrying a firearm, including holders of a Connecticut Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers issued under CGS § 29-28.
• The statute covers being under the influence of intoxicating liquor (alcohol) or any drug - this is not limited to illegal drugs and may include prescription medications or other substances that cause impairment.
• A violation could also potentially serve as grounds for revocation of a pistol permit under CGS § 29-32, which authorizes permit revocation for cause.

Related Statutory Provisions

• CGS § 53a-7 - Addresses the effect of intoxication as it relates to criminal liability generally.
• CGS § 29-38c - Under Connecticut's Risk Protection Order ("red flag") law, alcohol abuse is one of the factors a judge may consider when determining whether a person poses an imminent risk of injury to themselves or others, which could lead to seizure of firearms.

Important Notes

• Connecticut does not specify a particular blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold in the statute for carrying a firearm under the influence, unlike some states. The standard is whether the person is "under the influence" of intoxicating liquor or drug.
• Permit holders should exercise extreme caution regarding the consumption of any alcohol or impairing substances while carrying a firearm.