The North Carolina General Assembly adjourned on Thursday, August 2, and thanks to your efforts, North Carolina's law-abiding gun owners were able to hold back attacks from the anti-gun community.
House Bill 1287, while still alive, remains locked up in the Senate Judiciary II Committee. This legislation sought to require the creation of a new database that would contain information on anyone who was denied a permit to purchase a handgun. The problem with this bill is that the current permit to purchase process allows sheriffs to deny a permit not just to people statutorily prohibited from purchasing or possessing a pistol, but also allows denials for random, arbitrary reasons. Not only would HB 1287 establish a new database where arbitrary denials are entered, but the information would remain in the new database for eight (8) years. This legislation remains viable, however, and there will undoubtedly be efforts next year to pass this attack on our Right to Keep and Bear Arms.
Another win for the pro-Second Amendment community was this week’s passage of House Bill 573. This legislation, introduced by pro-gun State Representative Arthur Williams (D- 6), would allow judges who have valid North Carolina concealed carry permits to lawfully carry a firearm for personal protection in courthouses. The North Carolina Senate passed HB 573 on Wednesday, August 1, on a 41-7 vote, and the bill is now in the hands of Governor Mike Easley (D).
Our thanks to all who helped with these efforts by contacting their elected officials!
The General Assembly will be back in session May 13, 2008.
More Like This From Around The NRA
