FAIRFAX, VA -- North Carolina’s Right-to-Carry permit holders are no longer required to complete an additional license application and background check before purchasing a handgun, thanks to a new law (HB 817) signed by Governor Mike Easley and supported by the National Rifle Association (NRA).
"HB 817 eliminates a duplicitous requirement, making the process easier for permit holders and law enforcement," said Chris W. Cox, NRA’s chief lobbyist. "This law recognizes that Right-to-Carry permit holders should not be inconvenienced for being the most responsible and law-abiding citizens in North Carolina."
North Carolina Right-to-Carry permit applicants must pass an extensive background check and complete a firearm safety training course before receiving their permit to carry. Less than 1% of Right-to-Carry permits have been revoked for any reason in the 38 states with such laws. Despite the unfounded predictions of "wild west" shoot-outs from the gun control lobby, states with Right-to-Carry laws have lower violent crime rates across the board.
"I would like to recognize Governor Easley and the North Carolina General Assembly, especially bill sponsors Rep. Mark K. Hilton and Rep. Wayne Sexton, Sr., for their efforts. Also, a special thanks is extended to the gun owners and NRA members who wrote and called in support of this legislation," concluded Cox.
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Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen`s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation`s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services.