On Wednesday, the North Carolina House passed Senate Bill 50, also dubbed the “Freedom to Carry NC Act,” which would make it legal for adults aged 18 and up to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. The final House vote came in at 59–48, with fierce opposition from Democrats and even a few GOP defectors.
The bill had already cleared the Senate earlier this year and now awaits a signature—or more likely, a veto—from Governor Josh Stein (D), who received it at his desk Friday, according to the bill’s history. Stein has already hinted he’ll reject it. Without a supermajority, Republicans will need Democratic support to override.”
WHAT SB 50 CHANGES
1. Permitless Carry:
All legal U.S. citizens 18 and older in North Carolina can now carry a concealed handgun without needing a permit.
2. Optional Permits Remain:
Permits will still be offered for residents traveling to other states that require reciprocity.
3. Penalty Enhancements:
Assaulting law enforcement or first responders with a gun will now carry stricter felony charges.
OPPONENTS SOUND THE ALARM
Critics argue that removing required training for concealed weapons will result in more accidents and gun violence, especially among younger gun owners.
North Carolina would become the 31st state to approve permitless concealed carry, aligning with a national trend backed by pro-gun groups—but also drawing backlash from public safety advocates and healthcare professionals.
With Gov. Stein’s veto looming and no guaranteed override, SB 50’s fate is far from sealed.
