Alabama bill would allow concealed carry without permit

Published 11:30 am Wednesday, April 17, 2019

MONTGOMERY (AP) — Alabama lawmakers are holding a public hearing on a proposal to allow people to carry concealed handguns in public without getting a special permit.

The Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday morning will hear opinions on the bill by Republican Sen. Gerald Allen of Tuscaloosa. The legislation would do away with the current requirement to get a concealed carry permit.

Allen said people should be able to exercise their constitutional right to bear arms without paying a fee. The legislation is backed by gun rights groups.

A number of state sheriffs and the members of the group Moms Demand Action will oppose the bill during the hearing. Sheriffs have said the permits are needed for public safety.

Allen has proposed the legislation for several years.