The Idaho House State Affairs Committee voted unanimously this morning in favor of a bill that would advance the rights of law-abiding gun owners. By voice vote, the Committee approved House Bill 192 which will now move to the floor of the House. Introduced by the House State Affairs Committee and co-sponsored by Representative Joe Palmer (R-20), HB 192 would create an enhanced concealed carry license option for those applicants who choose to undergo additional training for more carry benefits and more opportunities for reciprocity in other states. HB 192 will now go to the full House of Representatives where it is eligible for a full vote.
This enhanced concealed carry license would help increase recognition of Idaho’s permit in other states, increasing Idaho’s current 27 state reciprocity to almost 40 states. The enhanced permit would require several additional instruction requirements above the current permit training, including a minimum of 8 hours of training by a certified instructor in the principles of self-defense, self-defense law and the proper use of a defensive handgun. HB 192’s enhanced concealed carry license would fulfill more of the reciprocity or recognition requirements set by permit-issuing authorities in states around the country, therefore improving the chances that Idaho’s permit holders will soon be able to carry a firearm for self-defense in more states. Idaho’s current concealed carry license system would remain unchanged and residents would still have the option to apply for the regular carry license.
Thank you to the members of the House State Affairs Committee for their vote to advance the rights of law-abiding gun owners in Idaho. Although a date has not been scheduled for a final vote, please contact your Representative and politely urge him or her to support this pro-gun reform when it comes up for a vote. Your NRA-ILA will continue to update you as more details become available.