Governor Henry McMaster today released the following statement on the State Senate passing H. 3594, the "Constitutional Carry" or "permit-less gun carry" bill:
"Today, the South Carolina Senate took a huge step toward closing the 'revolving door' on career repeat criminals. Stricter increased penalties for repeat illegal gun use and possession will keep these criminals behind bars instead of shooting up our streets with impunity. It was a collaborative and cooperative effort by the Senate. My hope is that the House will concur with their improvements and send it to my desk immediately so we can begin saving lives."
The bill passed today in a 28-15 vote largely along party lines. The bill differs from what the version the SC House passed last year, so a compromise will need to be worked out before the bill is sent to Gov. McMaster to sign.