Yesterday, Governor Roy Cooper unsurprisingly vetoed House Bill 49, which would have ensured that law-abiding citizens who inadvertently let their carry permit expire could apply for a new one without as much time and expense. The Senate previously pulled it from committee and promptly passed it on the floor less than two weeks prior.

Gov. Cooper’s veto message falsely claims that HB 49 was meant to “chip away at commonsense gun safety measures.” These one-size-fits-all, government-imposed training mandates do not improve public safety. As demonstrated in the many other states without such mandates, where firearm instructors still remain in business, citizens will seek out the training that best suits their needs and skill level. Imposing a training requirement on permit holders based on an arbitrary distinction of the day on which they file a renewal is just another barrier to the exercise of a constitutional right that disproportionately affects those of limited financial means or with tight schedules.

Gov. Cooper has shown law-abiding gun owners another reason why they must always be ready to vote to elect officials who will work to protect their rights. This year, the entire General Assembly is up for election. Please stay tuned to www.nraila.org and your email inbox for further updates.