Today, the Kansas Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee passed Senate Bill 45, NRA-backed permitless carry legislation, by a 6-3 vote. SB 45 will now head to the Senate floor for the full Senate’s expected consideration.

Authored by Senate Majority Leader Terry Bruce (R-34), SB 45 recognizes Kansans’ freedom to legally carry a concealed firearm without the burdensome requirement of acquiring a Kansas concealed carry handgun license (CCHL). This is a necessary update to concealed carry in Kansas, allowing law-abiding gun owners the ability to better protect themselves and their loved ones. In Kansas, it is already legal to carry a firearm openly, as long as the individual is not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. However, under current law, if a firearm becomes covered by a coat or if a woman prefers to carry a firearm for self-protection in her purse, he or she would need to possess a CCHL.

This permitless carry legislation gives Kansans the freedom to choose the best method of carrying for them, based on their attire, gender and/or physical attributes. However, this legislation would also keep in place the current permitting system so that people who obtain a permit could still enjoy the reciprocity agreements that Kansas has with other states.

Please thank the members of the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee who voted in support of this critical Right to Carry legislation, and begin contacting your state Senator in support of SB 45 today.

Senator Ralph Ostmeyer (R-40), Chairman

Phone: 785-296-7399

Email: Ralph.Ostmeyer@senate.ks.gov

Senator Jacob LaTurner (R-13), Vice Chairman

Phone: 785-296-7370

Email: Jacob.LaTurner@senate.ks.gov

Senator Mitch Holmes (R-33)

Phone: 785-296-7667

Email: Mitch.Holmes@senate.ks.gov

Senator Jeff Longbine (R-17)

Phone: 785-296-7384

Email: Jeff.Longbine@senate.ks.gov

Senator Robert Olson (R-23)

Phone: 785-296-7358

Email: Rob.Olson@senate.ks.gov

Senator Rick Wilborn (R-35)

Phone: 785-296-7354

Email: richard.wilborn@senate.ks.gov