NRA-ILA | Nebraska Becomes 27th State to Pass NRA-Backed Constitutional Carry

The National Rifle Association applauds the Nebraska legislature for passing NRA-backed constitutional carry today in a 33-14 vote. The bill is now headed to the governor for his signature.

“With Gov. Pillen’s signature, Nebraska becomes the 27th state in America that protects the right of Americans to carry a firearm outside of their home without first asking the government for additional permission and paying additional fees,” said Travis Couture-Lovelady, Nebraska state director for the NRA. “State-by-state, NRA is working to eliminate overly burdensome carry requirements that have put restrictions on law-abiding Americans for far too long. Nebraska is the latest state to recognize law-abiding citizens are not the problem — criminals are.”

Constitutional carry protects Americans’ right to carry a firearm for self-defense by eliminating the requirement that law-abiding gun owners obtain a permit to carry. The law does not affect previously issued permits, and does not eliminate the permitting system. Those who wish to obtain a permit to carry in states that recognize Nebraska permits still can. In addition, this bill does not change who is permitted to obtain a firearm. Felons and other disqualified persons can still be punished under federal, state and local statutes for unlawful possession of a firearm.

LB 77 also strengthens preemption, giving the state legislature sole authority to regulate firearms. This prevents Nebraska counties and municipalities from having a patchwork of confusing and conflicting local laws throughout the state.

“This is a movement that’s sweeping the nation and the NRA is proud to be the leader behind it. Anti-gun lawmakers must recognize that law-abiding people should be able to defend themselves wherever they are — after all, self-defense situations can happen anywhere and without warning. Nebraskans will soon live in a state that further respects their freedom.”