A local lawmaker is working to advance legislation that would remove a requirement for those carrying concealed weapons in Pennsylvania.
Republican State Representative Aaron Bernstine has introduced a bill that would no longer require law-abiding citizens to obtain a license to carry a concealed firearm. This bill has 68 sponsors from both parties.
Bernstine’s House Bill 659 would allow anyone over 21 years old who passes the criminal background check required to purchase a firearm to legally carry that gun concealed. It would also make an optional concealed carry license available, which would be valid in other states that have a reciprocal agreement with Pennsylvania. Currently, there is no law requiring Pennsylvania residents to obtain a license for a gun carried openly.
20 other states currently do not require a license in order to allow for a concealed firearm to be carried.
