A newly proposed bill in North Carolina aims to protect gun owners’ medical privacy by limiting what health records can be disclosed during concealed carry permit background checks. House Bill 427 would replace detailed mental health record disclosures with a simple “Yes” or “No” regarding an applicant’s mental health status, preventing unnecessary exposure of sensitive medical history.

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CHARLOTTE, NC (2-minute read) — North Carolina lawmakers are considering a significant change to the state’s concealed carry permit process, following concerns over privacy violations during background checks. House Bill 427, introduced by Rep. Keith Kidwell, seeks to prevent sheriff’s offices from accessing detailed medical records when reviewing permit applications.

An investigation by WCNC Charlotte revealed that some health providers have shared highly sensitive information with law enforcement, including past abortions and sexually transmitted diseases, during the concealed carry permit approval process. Critics argue that this overreach is unnecessary and infringes on applicants’ privacy rights.

The proposed legislation would replace the current process with a straightforward “Yes” or “No” system. If a health provider has diagnosed an applicant with a mental illness, they would indicate it on the form without providing further details. Additionally, applicants flagged under this system would receive a written explanation from their health provider, ensuring transparency.

Supporters of the bill argue that sheriff’s offices do not need to know private medical details to determine whether someone is fit to carry a firearm. They emphasize that the reform would uphold Second Amendment rights while still maintaining a necessary level of background screening. Opponents, however, worry that limiting access to mental health records could lead to safety concerns if potentially dangerous individuals obtain permits.

If passed, House Bill 427 would take effect in October, providing clear protections against unnecessary medical disclosures. This bill comes amid broader debates about firearm regulations and privacy rights in North Carolina and across the country.

Safety Tip: When applying for a concealed carry permit, be aware of your rights regarding medical privacy. Understanding state laws and how background checks are conducted can help protect your personal information.