MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - The Alabama Senate has approved legislation that would allow people to carry loaded handguns in their cars without permits.

Senators voted 27-7 on Tuesday, sending the bill to the House. Current laws require drivers to have a concealed carry permit for loaded handguns. Drivers can carry unloaded handguns if they are secured out of reach.

Republican Sen. Gerald Allen, the bill’s sponsor, says a person’s car is an “extension of your home” and gun owners shouldn’t have to obtain permits to carry their gun in their property.

The Senate passed similar legislation last year, but the bill failed to pass the House. The Alabama Sheriff’s Association spoke out against the bill.

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