(Al Hartmann | Tribune file photo via AP) On March 1, 2018, file photo shows Jared Larson carrying a hidden firearm with a new provisional state license, Centerville, Utah. On Friday, February 12, 2021, gun rights activists released a festive press release saying Utah Governor Spencer Cox had signed a bill to repeal the law requiring a license to carry a concealed weapon.
Guns rights activists celebrated Friday when Governor Spencer Cox signed legislation overturning the law requiring Utahns to have a state license to legally carry a concealed gun.
A press release from the National Association for Gun Rights praised the legislation.
“Constitutional Carry is the simple concept that law-abiding citizens who are legally allowed to own a gun may also carry that gun openly or covertly, without having to pay taxes or obtain a government permit,” the group said. , which describes itself as “the largest” uncompromising “pro-gun organization in the country.”
The NRA also congratulated the governor on signing the measure
“There is no reason why a law-abiding person should request permission to carry a firearm for self-defense,” said Jason Ouimet, executive director. “The passing of this bill demonstrates Utah’s commitment to protecting the Second Amendment rights of its citizens.”
The measure, sponsored by Rep. Walt Brooks, R-St. George and Senator David Hinkins, R-Orangeville, takes effect May 5.
Opponents have warned the measure will make Utah less safe.
Most suicides in the state involve a firearm, they note.
In addition, removing the licensing requirement would also mean that firearms familiarity courses, in which an applicant is expected to demonstrate that he or she can safely load and unload a firearm, are no longer mandatory.
Criminal background checks will also be banned for anyone who wants to legally carry a concealed weapon, and will only be required for those seeking a license. Those checks prevented nearly 1,900 applicants from obtaining permits last year, including scores that had crimes on their record, from murder to theft and sexual assault, according to state data.
Another feature of the current system is that the state database of holders of a hidden carrier permit is checked daily by the court, and those who have disqualifying charges or convictions have their permits suspended or revoked. The state suspended or revoked 2,400 permits last year, including at least one for the charge of disarming a police officer.
“Our permits are answered in other states. Half of our permits that are issued are for residents of other states, ”said Senate sponsor Hinkins.
Senator Gene Davis, D-Salt Lake City, protested the bill on the Senate floor.
‘Many bills are coming in to limit police officers and their use of deadly weapons. But then we turn around with a bill like this that just says, “Okay, let’s arm the bourgeoisie,” Davis said. ‘I just don’t think this is good public policy. We are in 2021. This is no longer the Old West. “
Correction: 9:33 p.m. on February 12. Criminal background checks will remain mandatory for those applying for permits, but will not be required for anyone legally carrying a concealed weapon.