Republican lawmakers in North Carolina have just advanced a new bill (NC House Bill 189) that removes the requirement for anyone wanting to carry a concealed handgun to obtain a permit from the local sheriff.
The move comes just a month after the Republican-controlled General Assembly repealed another type of permit required before purchasing a pistol.
If passed, the bill would also lower the minimum age for concealed carry from 21 to 18.
NC House committee passes bill eliminating concealed carry permit requirement; North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association comes out against it https://t.co/YGcv4oYp1m pic.twitter.com/tl2bBa074I
— CBS 17 (@WNCN) May 2, 2023
Supporters of the bill argue that this is not a new concept, with 27 states already allowing individuals to carry concealed weapons without a permit.
According to data from the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, several hundred thousand people currently hold concealed handgun permits in the state. To obtain a permit, applicants must meet several qualifications, including completing a qualified training course, avoiding convictions for felonies or specific crimes, and not having any mental or physical disabilities that could prevent safe weapon handling.
Despite opposition from the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, the bill cleared the House judiciary committee by a 7-4 vote. Sheriffs argue that the permitting process helps deputies know who may be armed and is necessary for public safety.
If the bill becomes law, the permitting process will still be in place for those who wish to obtain a permit for use in another state or to speed up the criminal background check process when purchasing a gun. The bill must clear one more committee before reaching the House floor.
What do you think about the new bill?
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Originally posted 2023-05-03 13:40:58.