N.C. House backs bill to use concealed permit to buy pistol
The Associated Press
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - Carriers of concealed handgun permits could use them to buy a pistol in a bill tentatively approved by the state House on Monday night.
The bill would allow the concealed weapons permit to be used in lieu of requiring the buyer to get a handgun permit.
A person who gets a concealed handgun permit already goes through a background check and examination by a local sheriff. Getting a handgun permit is redundant for concealed permit holders, a bill sponsor said.
"It's just common sense legislation," said Rep. Wayne Sexton, R-Rockingham, adding that the change keeps "you from having to go down to get another permit."
But some opponents said the bill would represent a shift for state gun laws. They say the measure would allow anyone with a concealed permit to purchase an unlimited number of handguns on the same permit.
"One day, you could be someone who gets a (concealed weapons) permit, the next day, you could beat somebody to a pulp, and the next day you could buy a gun," said Rep. Jennifer Weiss, D-Wake.
The concealed handgun permit is in effect for five years but is essentially voided if the holder is convicted of a felony. That restriction meets the same standards as restrictions on getting a pistol permit, supporters said.
The bill was approved by a vote of 93-24. A final vote could come as early as Tuesday.
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