North Carolina Senate Nears Vote to Override Governor's Veto on Permitless Carry Bill

North Carolina is facing a contentious debate over Senate Bill 50, which would allow residents aged 18 and older to carry concealed handguns without a permit, eliminating background checks and safety training requirements. Governor Josh Stein vetoed the bill, citing concerns that it would make the state less safe and undermine responsible gun ownership, a position supported by gun safety advocates including Moms Demand Action and Everytown for Gun Safety. These groups, along with local leaders and law enforcement officials, warn that permitless carry could lead to increased gun homicides, road rage shootings, and everyday arguments turning deadly, citing data showing a 27% increase in gun homicides in states that removed permit requirements. Senate Republicans, led by Phil Berger, plan to override Stein’s veto, framing the vetoes as out of touch with North Carolinians, though the override faces challenges in the House where bipartisan support against the bill exists. Advocates emphasize that the consequences of the bill would be borne by ordinary citizens, not politicians, urging lawmakers to uphold the veto to protect public safety. The legislature is scheduled to reconvene and vote on the veto override soon, with the outcome uncertain due to the need for a three-fifths majority in both chambers.