North Carolina Advances Permitless Carry for 18-Year-Olds

The North Carolina General Assembly advanced legislation eliminating permit requirements for concealed carry of handguns by adults 18 and older, one of the youngest permitless carry ages proposed in any state. Supporters argued the change aligned with Second Amendment rights; opponents including law enforcement groups warned of safety risks from eliminating background check requirements for young adult carriers. Governor Josh Stein indicated he would veto the bill but Republicans held a veto-proof majority.