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RALEIGH, NC — On March 18, 2025, the North Carolina Senate Judiciary Committee approved Senate Bill 50, titled “Freedom to Carry NC,” which proposes to allow U.S. citizens aged 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without obtaining a permit. The bill now moves to the Senate Rules and Operations Committee for further consideration. ​

Key Provisions of Senate Bill 50

The proposed legislation permits individuals who are U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and not otherwise prohibited by law, to carry concealed handguns without a permit. Despite this change, the bill maintains the current concealed handgun permit system for those who seek permits for reciprocity purposes when traveling to other states or for personal reasons.

Legislative Process and Next Steps

After its approval by the Judiciary Committee, Senate Bill 50 has been re-referred to the Senate Rules and Operations Committee. If it receives a favorable report there, it will proceed to the Senate floor for debate and voting. If passed by the Senate, the bill will move to the House for consideration. Governor Roy Cooper’s stance on the bill has not been publicly stated at this time.​

Pro-Second Amendment Perspective

Senate Bill 50 upholds the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens by removing unnecessary barriers to concealed carry. Responsible gun owners should not be required to obtain permits to exercise their constitutional rights. Additionally, North Carolina would join 29 other states that have enacted similar “constitutional carry” laws, reflecting a growing trend toward permitless concealed carry across the nation. ​