In a unanimous vote today, the Idaho House of Representatives approved an important pro-gun reform. Introduced by the House State Affairs Committee and co-sponsored by state Representative Joe Palmer (R-20), House Bill 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 state Senate where it will be assigned to a committee for further consideration.
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 eight 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 68 state representatives who voted to advance the rights of law-abiding gun owners in Idaho and to NRA members who have contacted their state legislators in support of HB 192.
As HB 192 moves to the Senate for a committee assignment, please contact your state Senator and encourage him or her to support assigning this bill to a favorable committee. Contact information can be found here.