Despite fierce opposition from Governor John Lynch, House Bill 334 and House Bill 536 passed in the state House of Representatives and now go to the state Senate for consideration. It is important that you begin contacting your state Senator and urge him or her to pass and send this important legislation to the Governor:
HB 334 (Cunningham-R), which passed in the state House by a 193 to 122 vote, would strengthen current statewide firearms preemption by further prohibiting local governments or state agencies from enacting ordinances or regulations for the use of firearms. Over the past several years, local government and state agencies have attempted to regulate concealed carry throughout the state of New Hampshire. These types of regulations undermine the fundamental American principle of equal protection under the law for all citizens. HB 334 will ensure uniform firearm laws throughout New Hampshire and guarantee equal rights for all.
HB 536 (Hoell-R), which passed in the state House by a 180 to 144 vote, would repeal the existing law that requires a person to have a concealed firearm license in order to carry concealed. In New Hampshire, existing law allows any law-abiding citizen who can legally own/possess a firearm to carry it openly, either loaded or unloaded, anywhere in the state. This legislation will not change the current permitting system, which will still be required for those who wish to participate in reciprocal concealed carry permit agreements when traveling outside of the state. Additionally, HB 536 clarifies existing law for law-abiding individuals, not engaged in the business of selling pistols or revolvers, to sell a firearm to a non-prohibited person.
Please forward this alert to your family, friends and fellow gun owners. Encourage them to also call and e-mail their state Senator today and ask them to SUPPORT HB 334 and HB 536.
Contact information for your state Senator can be found here.