House Bill 61: Omnibus Gun Changes

• Creates new statute G.S. 14-415.35 establishing right to carry concealed handguns without a permit while prohibiting carry on posted private property, while consuming alcohol, and by persons with disqualifying criminal history or mental health adjudications.

• Establishes firearm restrictions in specific locations including State Capitol, Executive Mansion, courthouses, and educational property; prohibits weapons at picket lines and demonstrations; exempts law enforcement, judges, district attorneys, and other specified officials.

• Extends qualified retired law enforcement officer permit eligibility from 2 to 5 years from retirement; modifies concealed handgun permit application process to limit required documentation and establish 90-day issuance timeline.

• Authorizes concealed carry in State legislative buildings for legislators, legislative employees, and qualified retired law enforcement officers with a permit, subject to notice requirements.

• Allows concealed carry in locked vehicles on educational property outside school hours and at locations serving both educational and religious purposes outside operating hours; requires State Board of Education to develop firearm safety and wildlife conservation elective courses.