SC House OKs bill ending permits to carry concealed weapons

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A bill that would allow South Carolina residents to carry concealed weapons without a permit has passed the House.

Supporters of getting rid of concealed weapons permits amended a bill Thursday allowing permits from Georgia to be accepted in South Carolina. The changed bill was approved on a 90-18 vote.

Rep. Mike Pitts introduced the amendment. The Laurens Republican says it is a good compromise because people would still have to keep their guns hidden from view in public, but would not have to go through hours of training for a constitutional right.

Opponents of the bill say training is important to gun safety.

The South Carolina Sheriff’s Association hasn’t had a chance to review the bill but says it opposes people carrying weapons in public without training.