NRA-ILA | South Carolina: Permitless Carry Passes the Senate, Waiting on Concurrence by the House

Last week, South Carolina moved one step closer to becoming the 28^th state to enact Permitless/Constitutional Carry! This effort has been years in the making, clearing a major hurdle by passing the Senate, which has been a roadblock against this effort in past sessions. House Bill 3594, which did receive amendments in the Senate, is now eligible for a concurrence vote in the House. If the House does not concur with the Senate amendments, the legislation is likely dead for this session. NRA members and gun owners need to contact members of the House and urge their support to concur with the Senate amendments on this right to self-defense enhancement in the Palmetto State. A vote in the House is anticipated this week.

House Bill 3594, recognizes the rights of law-abiding citizens right to carry a firearm for self-defense without first seeking government permission. The law does not eliminate the permitting system for those who still desire to have a permit for out-of-state carry and other purposes.

During the Senate floor debate, dozens of amendments were offered, and several amendments were accepted that include:

Free Voluntary Training: The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is to provide free, concealed weapon permit training courses regularly throughout the state.

Lowers the Age for Concealed Carry Permits: The minimum age requirement for concealed carry permits would be reduced from 21 to 18 years of age.  

Increased Penalties for Prohibited Persons: Increases the penalties for prohibited persons in possession of a firearm, with additional increases if carrying in the commission of a crime.

Prohibited Places: Aligns punishments for carrying in prohibited places with the current concealed carry statute for a first offense. Enhanced penalties only for those who are habitual offenders.   

Again, contact members of the House today and urge them to concur in the Senate amendments to make South Carolina the 28^th state to allow permitless/constitutional carry!