Gun control groups condemn constitutional carry bills

Constitutional carry bills have recently advanced in the Michigan and North Carolina Legislatures, and gun control group Moms Demand Action has come out strongly against both of them.

The group called the Michigan permitless concealed carry bill dangerous, arguing it would make it easier for criminals to carry concealed firearms.

“Dismantling our common-sense Concealed Pistol License requirement would let some violent criminals and people with no safety training legally carry hidden, loaded handguns in public throughout Michigan, making it harder for law enforcement to protect our communities,” said Michigan chapter leader Emily Durbin. “Michigan law enforcement groups have opposed HB 4416, and our legislators should listen to their concerns.”

Supporters of the Michigan bill called it a win for gun rights advocates and argued criminals will get their hands on guns regardless of the concealed carry laws, The Detroit News reported.

“Criminals do not obey the law. Criminals don’t obey the gun laws we have now. And criminals won’t obey the new gun laws we pass. That is why they’re called criminals,” Republican Rep. Lee Chatfield said.

“I wholeheartedly believe allowing law-abiding citizens to have the same freedoms that criminals already do in this state will make our communities safer,” he said.

Moms Demand Action also condemned similar legislation passed in the North Carolina House, echoing arguments used against the Michigan bill.

“This disgraceful and dangerous vote puts our families at risk,” said chapter leader Christy Clark. “We cannot stay silent as our representatives continue to threaten the safety of our families.”

Supporters of the bill characterized it as a common sense proposal.

“It is reasonable to allow law-abiding citizens to conceal carry in areas where open carry is currently allowed,” said state Rep. Jon Hardister, R-Greensboro, as reported by the Winston-Salem Journal.

Both bills are now headed to the Senates of their respective states.

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