A bill that would remove the licensing requirement for carrying concealed guns is on its way to the governor after the New Hampshire House passed it on Thursday.Republican Gov. Chris Sununu is likely to sign the bill. The House passed it 200-97; the Senate already approved the measure.Democratic former Gov. Maggie Hassan twice vetoed a similar bill, saying that the existing law works well and preserves public safety.Existing law allows anyone who can legally own a gun to carry it openly. But to carry it out of sight, such as in a purse or under a jacket, a person must get a license from local law enforcement or town officials.The police can take into consideration whether the person is "suitable" to hold a license. An officer could, for example, deny someone a license if he or she is frequently caught getting into fights, even if the person doesn't have a criminal record.Officials have 14 days to issue a license after the application is submitted, and denials can be appealed in court.The National Rifle Association of America said concealed carry is legal in 11 states, including Maine and Vermont."It's encouraging to see the Legislature stand up for the rights of New Hampshire residents," the NRA said in a statement. "We hope the governor will sign this measure and give New Hampshire residents the freedoms they deserve."

A bill that would remove the licensing requirement for carrying concealed guns is on its way to the governor after the New Hampshire House passed it on Thursday.

Republican Gov. Chris Sununu is likely to sign the bill. The House passed it 200-97; the Senate already approved the measure.


Democratic former Gov. Maggie Hassan twice vetoed a similar bill, saying that the existing law works well and preserves public safety.

Existing law allows anyone who can legally own a gun to carry it openly. But to carry it out of sight, such as in a purse or under a jacket, a person must get a license from local law enforcement or town officials.

The police can take into consideration whether the person is "suitable" to hold a license. An officer could, for example, deny someone a license if he or she is frequently caught getting into fights, even if the person doesn't have a criminal record.

Officials have 14 days to issue a license after the application is submitted, and denials can be appealed in court.

The National Rifle Association of America said concealed carry is legal in 11 states, including Maine and Vermont.

"It's encouraging to see the Legislature stand up for the rights of New Hampshire residents," the NRA said in a statement. "We hope the governor will sign this measure and give New Hampshire residents the freedoms they deserve."