Nebraska becomes 27th state to pass NRA-backed 'Constitutional Carry'

The National Rifle Association applauds the Nebraska legislature for passing NRA-backed constitutional carry today in a 33-14 vote. The bill is now headed to the governor for his signature.

“With Gov. (jim) Pillen’s signature, Nebraska becomes the 27th state in America that protects the right of Americans to carry a firearm outside of their home without first asking the government for additional permission and paying additional fees,” said Travis Couture-Lovelady, Nebraska state director for the NRA. “State-by-state, NRA is working to eliminate overly burdensome carry requirements that have put restrictions on law-abiding Americans for far too long. Nebraska is the latest state to recognize law-abiding citizens are not the problem — criminals are.”

Constitutional carry protects Americans’ right to carry a firearm for self-defense by eliminating the requirement that law-abiding gun owners obtain a permit to carry. The law does not affect previously issued permits, and does not eliminate the permitting system. Those who wish to obtain a permit to carry in states that recognize Nebraska permits still can. In addition, this bill does not change who is permitted to obtain a firearm. Felons and other disqualified persons can still be punished under federal, state and local statutes for unlawful possession of a firearm.

LB 77 also strengthens preemption, giving the state legislature sole authority to regulate firearms. This prevents Nebraska counties and municipalities from having a patchwork of confusing and conflicting local laws throughout the state.

“This is a movement that’s sweeping the nation and the NRA is proud to be the leader behind it. Anti-gun lawmakers must recognize that law-abiding people should be able to defend themselves wherever they are — after all, self-defense situations can happen anywhere and without warning. Nebraskans will soon live in a state that further respects their freedom.”

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