Bill > H5

This bill establishes constitutional carry in North Carolina, allowing citizens aged 18 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit while maintaining a voluntary permit system for purposes like interstate travel and firearm purchases. The legislation creates new legal provisions that specify who is prohibited from carrying a concealed handgun, including individuals with certain criminal histories, those with mental health adjudications, and people with specific misdemeanor convictions. Carriers must have valid identification and disclose their weapon to law enforcement when approached. The bill modifies existing statutes to remove permit requirements for concealed carry while preserving penalties for improper weapon possession. Specifically, carrying a concealed handgun when legally prohibited would result in a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class H felony for subsequent offenses. The bill also clarifies that concealed handgun permits remain available for those who want them, and updates various related sections of North Carolina law to align with the new constitutional carry framework. The new law is set to take effect on December 1, 2025, and will apply to offenses committed on or after that date.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H5