A bill allowing any U.S. citizen to carry concealed weapons in the Gem State is on its way to the Idaho House.
Supporters of the bill say they’re trying to close a confusing loophole that can leave out-of-state visitors scratching their heads.
Right now, anyone over 18 can carry a concealed weapon without a permit in most places in Idaho, but only Idaho residents can do so within city limits.
Second Amendment Alliance President Greg Pruett says Idaho should join the 13 other states who have so-called “constitutional carry” laws.
“The Second Amendment is our permit and always has been,” Pruett said.
Two other states, North Dakota and neighboring Wyoming, only offer these benefits to state residents.
But gun control advocates say this would further weaken Idaho’s already lax firearms laws.
Diana David, with Everytown for Gun Safety, told the House State Affairs Committee how her uncle was killed after helping his daughter escape an abusive relationship.
“Please be careful what you hope for and what you enable because no one is immune to gun violence – even gun owners like my family,” David said.
The bill now heads to the House floor after passing the committee along a party line vote.
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