Fairfax, Va. - The National Rifle Association won another victory for gun owners today as Maine Gov. Paul LePage signed Legislative Document 652 into law, allowing anyone over the age of 21 to carry concealed without a permit.

“Maine now joins an ever-growing number of states in passing permitless carry,” said Chris Cox, Executive Director of NRA¹s Institute for Legislative Action. “Despite the best efforts of Michael Bloomberg-funded groups to distort the truth, the Maine legislature and Governor stood strong for freedom."

LePage's signature on LD 652 makes Maine the sixth state to enact permitless carry, which is in stark contrast to Gov. Maggie Hassan's recent action in neighboring New Hampshire. On Monday, Hassan vetoed similar legislation at the behest of Michael Bloomberg and his gun control groups.

“It’s encouraging to see a governor stand up for the rights of their constituents, instead of caving to the demands of an anti-gun billionaire from New York City. On behalf of the NRA's five million members, we would like to thank Gov. LePage, Senator Eric Brakey, and the House and Senate leadership for their work in pushing this legislation through.”

Endorsed by the Maine State Police, LD 652 leaves the current permit system in place for those who want to take advantage of Maine¹s concealed carry reciprocity agreements.

Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. More than five million members strong, NRA continues to uphold the Second Amendment and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services. Be sure to follow the NRA on Facebook at NRA on Facebook and Twitter @NRA.