On Thursday, February 12, House Bill 65 was unanimously passed out of the House State Affairs Committee.  It now heads to the House floor for consideration. 

Sponsored by State Representative Joe Palmer (R-20A), this pro-gun bill would permit law-abiding Idahoans to purchase firearms in non-contiguous states.  It would also permit non-residents to purchase long guns in Idaho. 

As the law currently stands, residents of Idaho can only purchase firearms from immediately surrounding states.  With the passage of HB65 a resident of Idaho would now be allowed to purchase a firearm in any of the 49 other states.  This bill affects only rifles and shotguns, as federal law prohibits interstate handgun sales.  Handguns can only be purchased from a dealer in one’s state of residence.  An additional benefit is that out-of-state visitors would be able to purchase long guns while in Idaho. 

We will keep you alerted as to when there is any further movement on HB65.  Please continue to check www.NRAILA.org and your e-mail for updates throughout the legislative session.