CO:Constitutional Carry Considered

Two legislators, Jared Wright (R-Fruita) and Chris Holbert (R-Parker) introduced HB1041.  The measure would remove the requirement to obtain a permit from the state in order to possess concealed weapons.   The same restrictions that now apply to concealed carry permit holders would also apply to people who would be eligible for the permit.

The permit system would be retained for those who wish a permit for purposes of reciprocity with other states.

Representative Wright said that a permit should not be required to exercise a constitutional right.  From gjsentinel.com:

“This is in essence allowing law-abiding citizens to carry a concealed handgun without being subjected to criminal laws,” Wright said. “Now let me tell you what this bill does not do. This bill does not authorize the carrying of concealed handguns by felons, the mentally ill, juveniles or anyone otherwise prohibited from possessing handguns under state or federal law.”

The reporting by the gjsentinal seems a bit confused.  They write:

The measure also wouldn’t do away with the concealed-carry permit system in case someone needs one to carry a weapon out of state. All other states that permit the practice honor concealed-carry, but only with a state permit.

But immediately following, they add this paragraph:

 Only five states — Wyoming, Arizona, Arkansas, Alaska and Vermont — don’t require permits.

If five states do not require a permit, then the statement "All other states that permit the practice honor concealed-carry, but only with a state permit."  is false.

It is a mistake that can be made by anyone who is not familiar with firearms law.


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