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Idaho Moms Demand Action, Everytown Criticize Senate Passage of Dangerous Gun Bill; Urge Governor Little to Veto

3.27.2019

BOISE, Id. – The Idaho chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, part of Everytown for Gun Safety, today denounced the Senate for passing HB 206, dangerous legislation that would allow 18-20-year-olds to carry concealed, loaded handguns in Idaho cities without getting a permit, passing a background check or completing gun safety training. The legislation now heads to Governor Brad Little’s desk to be signed or vetoed.

“I’m so disappointed that our legislature would vote to pass legislation that jeopardizes our safety.” said Elana Story, a volunteer with the Idaho chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. “We have a long history of responsible gun ownership in Idaho, but to be responsible, we need basic requirements to help keep our communities and youth safe. Most Idahoans agree that firearm safety and training is a good idea. But we cannot assume that every individual is going to prioritize safety and seek basic firearm training before taking on the responsibility of carrying a concealed firearm in public spaces. For the safety of our families, we urge Gov. Little to veto this dangerous bill.”

HB 206 would allow 18-20-year-olds to carry concealed, loaded weapons within city limits and without a permit, lowering the current minimum age of 21. Permitless carry dramatically lowers the bar for who can carry a concealed handgun in public—to include in some cases violent criminals, and people who have no firearm safety training. In this instance, this expansion would also apply to 18-20-year-olds, who commit gun homicides at a rate four times higher than adults 21 and older.

In the vast majority of US states, a person must have a permit to carry a loaded, concealed handgun in public. These laws ensure that core public safety standards are preserved when people carry guns in public places. Bills that expand the reach of permitless carry undermine important public safety laws, and allow more people to carry concealed guns in public without a permit or safety training.