PIERRE — South Dakotans will be able to carry concealed handguns without a permit beginning July 1.

Less than a month into office, Gov. Kristi Noem fulfilled one of her campaign promises on Thursday by signing the bill repealing the requirement into law.

She said she was "proud" that it was the first bill she signed as governor. Republican legislators who championed the bills stood in a crowd behind her as she signed the bill at a desk in the Capitol Rotunda, applauding after her signature turned it into law.

"It's special for me to be signing a bill into law that protects our Second Amendment rights," Noem said afterward.

Previously:Gov. Kristi Noem to sign 'Constitutional carry' bill into law

The bill, sometimes called "Constitutional carry," gives residents the option to choose the best method for themselves — residents can still obtain a concealed carry permit for reciprocity — and it keeps the restrictions in place on who can carry a concealed handgun, she said.

It's been debated and vetted in the Legislature over the past several years and the "robust and thoughtful process" has resulted in the bill's passage, she said.

The Constitution has provided the framework for policies for more than 230 years and while things have changed since it was written, "our American fundamental values have not," Noem said.

More:5 takeaways from Noem's first State of the State address

"I believe this legislation will further protect the Seconds Amendment rights of the citizens of South Dakota and this country," she said.

Several bills regarding permitless concealed carry are still moving through the Legislature and Noem said the bills will continue to go through the committee vetting process.

Law enforcement didn't support the bill signed by Noem on Thursday, but they support a bill that is currently under consideration in the House that would restrict permitless concealed carry to South Dakota residents only and they continue to provide suggestions about the bills, Noem said.

Previously:Bill allowing concealed handguns without a permit heads to Noem's desk