NC lawmaker wants rifle restrictions like current pistol law

CHARLOTTE — A local lawmaker plans to introduce a bill that would add several requirements to buy a rifle in North Carolina.

State Representative Rodney Moore, (D) Mecklenburg, has drafted a bill that would change three specific laws.

1. Raise the age to buy a rifle from 18 to 21

2. Require a license to buy a rifle.

3. Require a 90-day waiting period.

The proposal would bring rifle rules more into alignment with current pistol law in North Carolina. Anyone who wants to buy a pistol has to get a permit from the local sheriff.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE PROPOSAL

"We want to try to put some policies in place, at least get the conversation started, to make sure the public is safe," said Rep. Moore.

"I'm not trying to ban assault rifles. I'm just saying, if you are going to buy one or petition to buy one, you should be properly vetted," he explained.

He said the requirement will give officials enough time to run background checks. But, he understands that this is a contentious issue.

Larry Hyatt of Hyatt Gun Store said this bill faces an uphill battle.

"Right now, North Carolina has a pretty pro-gun legislature," said Hyatt.

Hyatt said rifles like the AR-15 have a bad reputation and the bill being proposed would do little to stop crime.

He said the bill would only impact law abiding citizens.

"People are looking for answers and a lot of them have un intended consequences," said Hyatt. "As the emotions die down and they start looking at the practical issues, I think we will get some good sense laws."

Rep. Moore said he understands that this bill will mean a fight in Raleigh and said it's one worth having.

"I'm looking for any positive feedback so we can really get this done. Because we can't not afford a tragedy like Parkland. Not here," said Rep. Moore.

The bill will likely go through changes before being introduced in May.

Cox Media Group