This week was the first full week of the 2015 legislative session in Charleston and there was a large amount of activity with the introduction of bills that will greatly benefit gun owners and sportsmen alike.
Senate Bill 275, introduced by state Senator Charles Trump (R-15), would ensure the confidentiality of personal information of all current and renewing applicants for a concealed handgun license. Additionally, it would make the personal information of those persons who have earned a concealed handgun license private to everyone other than law enforcement agencies.
Senate Bill 284, introduced by state Senator David Nohe (R-3), would require that a chief law enforcement officer (CLEO) sign an application for the transfer of any item regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) within fifteen days if the applicant is not prohibited by law from receiving it. By removing any possibility of personal bias and creating a statewide standard, SB 284 would protect the rights of law-abiding gun owners across the Mountain State.
House Bill 2120, introduced by state Delegate Gary Howell (R-56), would permit individuals with a concealed handgun license to legally carry concealed on the grounds of and within the state Capitol complex. Those law-abiding citizens with concealed handgun licenses would have to obtain a Capitol complex endorsement on their license for an additional fee of $50.
House Bill 2128, introduced by state Delegate Gary Howell (R-56), would recognize the right of individuals with a concealed handgun license to legally store a firearm in their private vehicle on state Capitol grounds.
House Bill 2144, introduced by state Delegate Bill Hamilton (R-45), would allow for the lawful hunting of game with a crossbow during all regular bow seasons currently in place.
Please stay tuned to your email inbox and www.nraila.org for further updates on these and other bills as the session continues.