Applications for concealed handgun permits have surged 706 percent since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional for New York to ask applicants to prove that they had a reason to carry a concealed weapon. Maryland had a similar rule, but in the wake of the decision, Gov. Larry Hogan (R), directed the Maryland State Police to stop requiring applicants to prove a “good and substantial” reason for carrying a concealed weapon.