North Carolina politicians discuss guns

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The same day 14 people were killed in San Bernardino, California, a North Carolina House Committee narrowly passed a bill that repeals the state’s pistol permit application system.

“We’re at the point now where we recognize that almost every few days there’s going to be a shooting,” said Democrat Andrew Barnhill who is running for a NC Senate seat.

Republican State Senator Michael Lee, who filed for re-election Friday, says more focus needs to be put on intelligence gathering and security.

“We’re making sure that we’re being more proactive to make sure that we can keep everyone safe,” said Lee.

If approved, the bill would allow more people convicted of misdemeanors to carry a concealed weapon. Democratic representative Susie Hamilton, who also filed for re-election, has concerns about the bill.

“There will be serious consequences, I think, as we back up on background checks for issuing these kinds of permits,” said Hamilton.

Right now, handgun purchases in North Carolina must be permitted by local sheriffs. The bill would change this for pistols but still require the national criminal check. Republican house candidate Gerald Benton said he supports the 2nd amendment but doesn’t support known criminals carrying guns.

“We need to make that so if you are a criminal with a weapon, it’s a felony and you will do time and not get out,” said Benton.

Governor McCroy and the NC Sheriff’s Association opposed the bill.