FirearmRelated Laws Moving Forward in the Granite State (NH)

[308Mike]

From NRA-ILA:

[center]Firearm-Related Legislation Moving Forward in the Granite State[/center]

Friday, February 25, 2011

Yesterday, three firearm-related bills were heard by the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee: House Bill 235, House Bill 330 and House Bill 334.

HB 235, introduced by state Representative Gary Hopper (R- Hillsborough 7), would permit the carrying of a firearm in one’s locked personal motor vehicle and prohibit a business entity from banning an employee, customer, or invitee from possessing a firearm in such person’s locked motor vehicle while on the business entity’s premises.

HB 330, introduced by state Representative Jennifer Coffey (R- Merrimack 6), would permit any person who can legally carry a firearm to possess a firearm openly or concealed without obtaining a license to carry a concealed firearm in New Hampshire. The current permit system would remain in place for those individuals who wish to obtain a carry permit so they can carry concealed in states that recognize New Hampshire’s permit. However, residents who legally qualify would no longer be required to obtain a carry permit in order to carry concealed in the state.

HB 334, introduced by state Representative Steve Cunningham (R-Sullivan 2), would strengthen New Hampshire’s current statewide firearms preemption law by further prohibiting local governments or state agencies from enacting ordinances or regulations relating to firearms. This important legislation would prevent New Hampshire from having countless local firearm laws, making compliance nearly impossible for law-abiding gun owners, concealed carry permit holders, hunters, target shooters, and firearm collectors who travel through multiple jurisdictions on the way to hunting areas or shooting ranges.

The House Criminal Justice and Public Safety referred all three bills to sub-committee for further language clarification. No action is needed at this time and NRA will keep you posted on the status of these three bills.