UPDATE: Governor Signs Conceal Carry Bill

UPDATE:Governor Sam Brownback signed Senate Bill 45 bill today that would allow residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit.

Legislators approved the measure last week, and the new law would take effect July 1.

“I am pleased to sign Senate Bill 45 bill today. I have been – and continue to be – a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights,” said Gov. Brownback.

The National Rifle Association says Kansas will become the fifth state to allow concealed carry without a permit everywhere.

Kansas still would issue permits for gun owners who want to carry concealed in other states that recognize Kansas permits. A person seeking a Kansas permit must undergo eight hours of firearms training.

“Let me clarify a few points. This bill does not eliminate our existing concealed carry permit process. It simply removes an administrative process for those Kansans who want a firearm for use within the state,” added Gov. Brownback.

Supporters of the bill said gun owners have shown they can be trusted to carry concealed.

Critics of the measure say the state should require some training to carry concealed.

“I strongly encourage anyone who has a gun – for protection or sport – to take advantage of existing safety training courses, whether for hunter safety or general gun safety,” Gov. Brownback said.

Gov. Sam Brownback plans to sign a bill allowing Kansas residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit.

The Republican governor’s office scheduled a signing ceremony for Thursday afternoon at the Statehouse. Legislators approved the measure last week.

The new law takes effect July 1.

The National Rifle Association says Kansas will become the fifth state to allow concealed carry without a permit everywhere within its borders.

Kansas still will issue permits for gun owners who want to carry concealed in other states that recognize Kansas permits. A person seeking a Kansas permit must undergo eight hours of firearms training.

Supporters of the bill said gun owners have shown they can be trusted to carry concealed.

Critics of the measure say the state should require some training to carry concealed.