DC officials dropping appeal of ruling on carrying guns

WASHINGTON (AP) — District of Columbia officials will no longer challenge a court ruling that struck down a ban on carrying handguns outside the home.

Attorney General Karl Racine announced Wednesday that he'll ask a federal appeals court to dismiss the District's appeal in the case.

The D.C. Council has already passed laws allowing people to obtain concealed-carry permits. However, gun-right advocates say it's too difficult to get a permit and are challenging the new laws in court. Residents must show a specific reason why they need to carry a handgun, among other restrictions.

Racine says in a statement that his office will focus on defending the concealed-carry laws. He says he's confident they will be upheld.