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RALEIGH, NC — Senate Bill 50, titled Freedom to Carry NC, continues to advance in the North Carolina House. On June 3, 2025, the bill was reported favorably and re-referred to the House Rules, Calendar, and Operations Committee after narrowly clearing the House Judiciary 2 Committee earlier that day by a 6–5 vote.

The legislation would allow law-abiding U.S. citizens 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without a permit, while preserving the existing concealed handgun permit system for those who want it for reciprocity or personal preference. The bill also increases penalties for certain firearm-related crimes and establishes a scholarship fund for children of first responders who are killed or disabled in the line of duty.

During the committee hearing, supporters pointed to longstanding efforts to bring constitutional carry to the state. Rep. Carson Smith (R-Pender) stated, “I appreciate y’all bringing this before us, and there’s been a willingness in the House for the past several years to make this happen.” Sen. Danny Britt (R-Robeson), one of the bill’s sponsors, explained that, “a lot of things change around here from session to session… we believe now that this is necessary to get this done,” according to reporting by The Carolina Journal.

Opposition to the bill remains strong, particularly among Democrats who voiced concerns over public safety. Rep. Deb Butler (D-New Hanover) said, “I don’t understand why in the world we would do this… For the life of me, I don’t understand it, and I certainly cannot support the bill.”

The bill has drawn support from gun rights organizations like Grass Roots NC, while groups advocating for stricter gun control, such as Moms Demand Action, continue to oppose the measure.

Constitutional carry simply recognizes the right of law-abiding citizens to defend themselves without being forced to obtain government permission to exercise a constitutional right. With 29 other states already enacting similar laws, North Carolina would be aligning itself with the majority of the country. Criminals, by nature, do not follow permitting requirements, leaving law-abiding citizens at a disadvantage when forced to navigate unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles. This bill removes that barrier for responsible gun owners while maintaining strong penalties for those who misuse firearms.

Governor Signals Veto

Governor Josh Stein has indicated he is likely to veto the bill if it reaches his desk. Speaking to reporters, Stein said, “My standard reviewing any piece of legislation is, will this make us safer? If it doesn’t make us safer – and the previous version certainly did not – I cannot support it,” The Carolina Journal reported.

Contrary to Governor Stein’s concerns, this bill would enhance public safety by allowing more law-abiding citizens to carry concealed and be prepared to defend themselves and others if faced with a threat. When responsible individuals are armed, it serves as a deterrent to criminals who prefer unarmed victims. Expanding legal concealed carry ensures that more citizens have the ability to respond immediately in dangerous situations, rather than waiting for law enforcement to arrive.

What’s Next

Senate Bill 50 now awaits consideration in the House Rules Committee. If it clears that stage, it will move to the House floor for two additional votes. After passing the House, the bill would head to Governor Stein for final consideration.

Overriding a potential veto will be challenging. Senate Republicans hold a supermajority, but House Republicans are one seat short. Any override effort will require full attendance and some bipartisan support to meet the required three-fifths majority in both chambers.

If ultimately enacted, the law would take effect December 1, 2025, making North Carolina the 30th state to adopt constitutional carry.