(Indianapolis, IN) - Carrying a handgun legally without a permit is close to becoming a reality in Indiana. Indiana House Bill 1296 is heading to the governor after passing out the republican controlled House and Senate.

 

Law enforcement, including LaPorte County Sheriff John Boyd, is strongly opposed, claiming the requirement for a permit is what helps get criminals and others prone to violence with an illegal gun off the streets. According to law enforcement officials, removing the need will further increase the safety risk for officers.  

 

Under the measure, people 18 and older can carry a gun in public without a permit. However, people with a felony conviction, restraining order, and dangerous mental illness would still be prohibited from having a gun.

 

So far, Governor Eric Holcomb has not indicated whether he’ll sign or veto the legislation.

 

Locally, State Representative Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) voted for the bill, while Pat Boy (D-Michigan City) and Ryan Dvorak (D-South Bend) voted against it. Senators Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso) and Rodney Pol, Jr. (D-Chesterton) voted against it, while Senator Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores) voted for it.