South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has signed “constitutional carry” legislation. (YouTube)
Fulfilling a campaign pledge, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem signed legislation making it possible for residents of the state to carry concealed sidearms without a permit.
The new statute takes effect July 1.
According to the Argus Leader, the governor, who is in her first term, told reporters that, “It’s special for me to be signing a bill into law that protects our Second Amendment rights.”
She asserted that the legislation will protect the rights of citizens in South Dakota, and from other parts of the country. But not everyone agrees.
According to KSFY News, a spokesperson for a local chapter of the anti-gun Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America declared, “We are frustrated and embarrassed that Governor Noem has decided to sign this into law.”
Shannon Hoime told the news agency, “I think it’s really dangerous and I’m frustrated that this has turned into a political issue instead of what the American public and the South Dakotans realize is a public safety issue.”
Sheriffs in the state also reportedly opposed the legislation, but Gov. Noem, who took office earlier in January, was quoted by The Hill observing, “I believe this legislation will further protect the Seconds Amendment rights of the citizens of South Dakota and this country.”
The National Rifle Association’s chief lobbyist Chris Cox said, “This law is a common sense measure that allows law-abiding South Dakotans to exercise their fundamental right to self-protection in the manner that best suits their needs.”
Under the new law, it will no longer be necessary to obtain a carry permit, although that option is still available. The permit would enable law abiding South Dakotans to continue enjoying reciprocity with other states when they travel.
The newspaper said there are still other bills regarding permitless concealed carry that remain under consideration in the Legislature. Apparently those measures will continue through the vetting process, the newspaper said.
Noem had indicated on the campaign trail that she supported the idea of constitutional carry.
