Raleigh, N.C. — In a move poised to reshape the landscape of gun ownership in North Carolina, the state Senate passed Senate Bill 50 on Thursday, legislation that would permit individuals to carry concealed handguns without obtaining a permit. The bill, titled “Freedom to Carry NC,” was approved along party lines with a 26-18 vote and now advances to the House for consideration.
Current Permit Requirements
Under existing North Carolina law, residents wishing to carry a concealed handgun must obtain a permit from their local sheriff’s office. This process requires applicants to be at least 21 years old, complete an approved firearms safety and training course, and pass a background check. The permit remains valid for five years.
Proposed Changes Under Senate Bill 50
Senate Bill 50 seeks to eliminate the permit requirement for concealed carry, allowing U.S. citizens aged 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without prior approval. The bill maintains the current permitting system for those who may seek permits for reciprocity with other states or to facilitate firearm purchases.
Support and Opposition
Proponents of the bill, primarily Republican lawmakers, argue that the existing permit requirements infringe upon Second Amendment rights. Senator Danny Britt, a primary sponsor of the bill, stated that individuals have a constitutional right to carry a concealed handgun for protection without navigating the current permitting process.
Opponents, including some law enforcement officials and Democratic legislators, express concerns about public safety. They argue that eliminating the permit and training requirements could lead to an increase in gun-related incidents. Representative Tracy Clark criticized the rapid progression of the bill, suggesting that a more deliberate approach would reveal that many North Carolinians oppose such measures. Durham’s Senators Natalie Murdoch and Sophia Chitlik both spoke out in strong opposition warning the consequences of lifting the ban.
If enacted, North Carolina would join 29 other states that have adopted some form of “constitutional carry,” allowing individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit.
“What happens if we take away the already flimsy guardrails? We don’t have to guess. A decade of data shows us permitless carry leads to more deaths.”
Local Impact in Durham
In Durham County, the Sheriff’s Office currently requires applicants for concealed handgun permits to be U.S. citizens, at least 21 years old, and residents of North Carolina for at least 30 days. Applicants must also complete an approved firearms safety course. The proposed legislation would remove these local requirements, potentially increasing the number of individuals carrying concealed weapons without formal training or vetting.
Next Steps
The bill now moves to the North Carolina House of Representatives, where it will undergo further debate and voting. Governor Roy Cooper has previously expressed opposition to similar measures, but the Republican majority in both legislative chambers could override a potential veto.
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