NORTH CAROLINA (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Leadership in Raleigh is signaling they want to pass a bill allowing permitless concealed carry. Senate Bill 50, dubbed “Freedom to Carry NC” was filed late Tuesday by three Republican senators and has the backing of Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger.
SB 50 allows North Carolinians over the age of 18 to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. There are some conditions, however. Those who have been convicted of a felony, dishonorably discharged, deemed mentally incompetent, or been convicted of driving under the influence within the last three years would not be eligible.
Berger, who was concerned about the timing of similar legislation in past years is now fully on board, according to a statement from his office.
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“We need to join the majority of states and recognize that law-abiding citizens should be able to exercise their Second Amendment rights without getting permission from the government,” said Berger via a joint statement.
SB 50 is just the latest version of permitless concealed carry legislation. Last week, State Rep. Keith Kidwell filed nearly identical legislation and has filed bills just like it ever since he’s been part of the General Assembly.
“I’m just glad to see that they filed the bill. I think it lands a positive note that we may actually be able to get constitutional carry passed this year,” said Kidwell.
Larry Hyatt, owner of Hyatt Guns in West Charlotte, says he has seen a recent uptick in demand for handguns, specifically for concealed carry use, but said the process is lengthy.
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“To get a concealed carry permit today requires taking an eight-hour course, applying at the sheriff’s department where you’ll be fingerprinted and an extensive background check. And it takes approximately three months,” said Hyatt.
If a permitless concealed carry bill does make it across the finish line in Raleigh, he’s prepared for another surge in both firearm purchases and training sign-ups.
“I think our classes will increase. We will have to change the class, it won’t be an eight-hour class. It might be shorter classes but we need more training for people, make it free, make it accessible,” said Hyatt.
