Sen. Lee Schoenbeck, R-Watertown, said those who would benefit from a permitless concealed carry law are those who would, under current law, be denied a permit for reasons such as a history of violence or a previous conviction.

“I’m sticking with my sheriff on this one,” Schoenbeck said, referring to the South Dakota Sheriffs' Association’s opposition to the bill. The State’s Attorneys Association also opposes SB 47.

It is unknown how many concealed carry permit applicants are denied every year, but Schoenbeck questioned why the legislature should pass a bill that could make it easier for those who would typically be denied to carry concealed.

According to the Secretary of State’s Office, as of Nov. 30, 2018, more than 107,000 South Dakotans hold active concealed carry permits.

Senators, as well as the Sheriffs' Association, also voiced concern that SB 47 would allow out-of-state residents to enter South Dakota and carry concealed pistols without vetting.

Republican Gov. Kristi Noem at a news conference last week said she supports the idea of constitutional carry, but needs to review the legislation and consult with law enforcement before making a final decision.

SB 47 now heads to the House for a vote before it can reach Noem’s desk.

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