North Carolina House bill exempts judges, clerks on gun rules

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — Proposed legislation which would include an exemption for North Carolina’s judges and clerks of court from limits on where they can carry concealed weapons passed the state House on Tuesday.

The bill passed with little opposition following more complaints from Democrats about the debate’s conduct.

The Republican-controlled chamber gave its final approval to the bill by a vote of 78-42. GOP legislators refused to hear 12 amendments over two days of debate. Republican used parliamentary rules to avoid votes on several gun-control topics. Democrats said the GOP thwarted free debate.

Judges and clerks of court join the list of those who are exempt from limits on where they can carry concealed weapons. The list includes district attorneys, assistant district attorneys, police officers and others.

Also, the bill would allow permit holders to store weapons in locked cars on public college campuses and arm themselves in a restaurant where alcohol is served unless the restaurant expressly says no.

The bill now going to the Senate also contains longer penalties for crimes committed with a gun.

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