NC Senate “Freedom to Carry NC” Bill Seeks to Allow Permitless Concealed Carry

Proposed legislation allows any U.S. citizen over 18 years old to carry a concealed handgun without a permit unless otherwise prohibited by law.

Holly Springs, NC, Feb. 7, 2025 — North Carolina residents should take note of a proposed law that could significantly impact firearm regulations across the state. Senate Bill 50 (link), titled "Freedom to Carry NC," was introduced on February 5, 2025, and aims to remove the requirement for individuals to obtain a concealed handgun permit. If passed, North Carolina would join 29 other states that have adopted similar "constitutional carry" laws.

Key Provisions of Senate Bill 50

The legislation allows any U.S. citizen over 18 years old to carry a concealed handgun without a permit unless otherwise prohibited by law. However, the bill maintains restrictions on carrying firearms in specific locations, including law enforcement facilities, correctional institutions, and private properties where firearms are explicitly banned.

While a concealed handgun permit would no longer be required for carrying a weapon in most cases, the bill continues to offer permits for those who need them for reciprocity with other states or other personal reasons, such as simplified background checks for firearm purchases.

Concealed Carry on School Grounds

One of the bill’s most discussed aspects involves changes to firearm rules on school property:

• Weapons in Vehicles on School Property: Under this bill, those who qualify for concealed carry would be allowed to store a handgun in a locked compartment within a locked vehicle while on school grounds.

• School Employees Residing on Campus: Employees of colleges, universities, and K-12 schools who live on campus may store a handgun at their residence or in their locked vehicle. However, they must keep firearms secured at all times and can only transfer them directly between their residence and vehicle.

• Religious Institutions on School Property: Schools that double as places of worship may allow concealed carry outside of school operating hours unless the institution explicitly prohibits firearms.

• What Remains Illegal: Carrying a concealed handgun inside school buildings or on school grounds during school hours remains prohibited, except for law enforcement or designated security personnel.

Impact on Schools and Public Safety

The proposed changes could prompt discussions among school administrators, educators, and parents regarding how firearm storage on school property aligns with existing security measures. Many school systems have already implemented controlled access to buildings and school resource officer (SRO) programs, which could be affected by this legislation.

Next Steps for Senate Bill 50

As the bill moves through the North Carolina General Assembly, public hearings and legislative debates will determine whether these changes become law. Residents are encouraged to follow updates on this legislation and voice their opinions on its potential impact.

If enacted, Senate Bill 50 will take effect on December 1, 2025.

For residents interested in expressing their views on Senate Bill 50, contacting local legislative representatives is an effective way to participate in the legislative process. Below is the contact information for the state and federal representatives serving the Holly Springs area:

North Carolina House of Representatives:

• Representative Erin Paré (District 37)

  • Email: Erin.Pare@ncleg.gov

  • Phone: (919) 733-2962

  • Office Address: 300 N. Salisbury St., Room 306B2, Raleigh, NC 27603-5925

  • Website:

https://reperinpare.com/

North Carolina Senate:

• Senator Sydney Batch (District 17)

  • Email: Sydney.Batch@ncleg.gov

  • Phone: (919) 733-5653

  • Office Address: 16 W. Jones Street, Room 1127, Raleigh, NC 27601

  • Website:

https://www.senatorbatch.com/