Proposed SC law would allow anyone to carry gun without permit

ROCK HILL, S.C. — The debate over gun control is about to fire up even more in South Carolina.

Eyewitness News learned state lawmakers will be in Rock Hill next week asking people their opinions on a proposed law that would allow any citizen to carry a concealed weapon, whether they have a permit or not.

"In my personal opinion, I think if you're going to carry around in public that you do need to have a permit," said Blair Wisher, who works at Sportsman Inc.

Wisher said concealed weapons permits keep people safe. To carry a concealed gun, people have to take classes and pass a test to show they can safely shoot the gun. There is also an extensive background check.

"It could be from speeding ticket. If you have a problem breaking the law, you're not going to get one," Wisher said.

Under the new proposal, any law-abiding citizen could carry a weapon anywhere without passing any tests and without carrying a permit.

Exceptions include businesses displaying a sign banning guns and anyone's private home without permission.

People carrying guns also can't cross state lines.

"Just because you're allowed to carry in your state without a permit doesn't mean you can go across border in another. People need to be aware of that," Wisher said.

The public hearing will be 7-9 p.m. Monday at York Technical College.

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