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RALEIGH, NC — Senate Bill 50, titled “Freedom to Carry NC,” passed its first reading in the North Carolina House of Representatives on March 25, 2025. The bill seeks to allow law-abiding residents 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without a permit. It also preserves the existing concealed handgun permit system for those who want it for reciprocity or other personal reasons.

Having cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Senate Rules and Operations Committee earlier this month, the bill now continues its journey through the legislative process in the House. Following the first reading, it has been referred to the House Committee on Rules, Calendar, and Operations.

What the Bill Proposes

Senate Bill 50 would permit U.S. citizens aged 18 and over to carry a concealed handgun in North Carolina without needing a concealed handgun permit, as long as they are not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law. The bill includes a comprehensive list of disqualifiers, including felony convictions, certain misdemeanor offenses, and substance abuse issues.

Importantly, the legislation maintains the concealed handgun permitting system for those who wish to carry in other states that require a permit for reciprocity or for individuals who simply prefer having documentation.

What’s Next

The bill must still pass two additional readings in the House before it can be sent to Governor Josh Stein for consideration. It remains uncertain whether the governor supports or opposes the measure. Should he decide to veto it, Republican lawmakers—no longer holding a supermajority—would need to gain support from some Democrats in order to override the veto.

If approved by both chambers and signed into law, or if a veto is successfully overridden, the law would take effect on December 1, 2025.

This bill would restore constitutional rights by removing unnecessary permit requirements for law-abiding citizens who wish to carry concealed firearms for self-defense. North Carolina would join the growing number of states that have adopted constitutional carry laws, reflecting a broader national trend in support of Second Amendment freedoms.