North Carolina Republicans Successfully Override Dem Governor’s Gun Control Veto
A new law in North Carolina will eliminate background checks for handguns conducted by local law enforcement, after the state’s Republican-controlled House of Representatives voted to override Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of Senate Bill 41. The bill will also allow individuals with concealed carry permits to bring their weapons into churches that host private schools, as long as classes are not in session. Democratic State Attorney General Josh Stein released a video response criticizing the repeal, stating that “dangerous people like violent criminals and domestic abusers will be able to more easily get their hands on guns.” However, supporters of the bill, such as the National Rifle Association (NRA) argue that “law-abiding residents should not have to ask the government for permission to exercise their Second Amendment rights.” In addition to repealing background checks, the bill will also create an awareness campaign to educate gun owners on safe firearm storage and increase distribution of gun locks.
The move marks the first time since 2018 that North Carolina’s GOP lawmakers have successfully overridden a veto. The repeal of SB 41 will go into effect immediately, meaning that North Carolinians will no longer need to obtain permits from local sheriffs to buy handguns. Instead, buyers will just need a federal background check if they purchase their guns from licensed dealers, making handgun purchases similar to rifle and shotgun purchases. The decision was backed by the state’s sheriff’s association, as well as groups such as the NRA, who argue that law-abiding citizens should not have to ask for government approval to exercise their constitutional rights.
This decision comes as lawmakers in Washington, D.C. grapple with another school shooting in Nashville, Tennessee where Audrey Hale, a transgender man, opened fire at a Christian school, killing three children and three adults. Democrats reportedly complained Republicans did not allow them to discuss the recent Nashville shooting, arguing it may have swayed opinions over the bill.
Speaker of the House, Republican Tim Moore, issued a statement pointing out that the previous permit system was outdated and that repealing background checks had been a long-standing goal of Second Amendment advocates in the state. While the vote has been controversial, North Carolinians will be able to buy handguns without permits from this point on.
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