Bill introduced to loosen carry permit restrictions
BOISE — Idaho residents may be able to carry a concealed firearm without a permit in the near future if a bill that was introduced to the House State Affairs Committee Thursday is passed by the Idaho legislature.
The committee voted along party lines to give the bill a hearing, the first step in making it Idaho law.
The “Constitutional Carry” bill seeks to “align Idaho laws with the true meaning of the Second Amendment such that law abiding citizens may carry concealed weapons without a permit,” as per the statement of purpose associated with the bill.
Currently, the majority of Idaho citizens must complete a state-approved course that demonstrates familiarity with a firearm before applying for a concealed carry license. The permit costs $20 up front, and must be renewed every five years. Approved courses are offered all over the state through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the National Rifle Association, the Idaho State Police and occasionally by Idaho colleges and universities.
Should the Constitutional Carry bill pass the legislature, restrictions would still be in place outlining who is lawfully able to carry concealed weaponry. If a person is under 21, charged with certain crimes with imprisonment terms exceeding one year, lacks the mental capacity to operate a gun or meets any of the federal or state provisions excluding them from applying for a concealed carry permit, the person could still face criminal punishment for carrying a concealed firearm.
Additionally, citizens would still need to obtain an enhanced concealed carry permit to carry a concealed firearm on Idaho colleges or university campuses.
Private businesses would still have the ability to restrict firearms to be brought onto their property, and firearms would continue to be prohibited from courthouses, correctional facilities and elementary or secondary schools.
George Wood Jr. can be reached at [email protected]