The bill passed along party lines, but not before Democrats successfully amended it to add benefits for slain police officers ...

The bill, which could be headed to the Senate floor soon, notably has the backing of Senate leader Phil Berger this year.

“An additional bonus of the concealed-carry license is the mandatory eight hours of education required to get one. The invaluable training covers handgun safety, explains state laws about self-defense ...

Ranges near bases frequently offer spouse-only classes, reduced-cost certifications, or even waived fees. Some states adjust concealed carry training requirements for military families ...

"The change in law, of course, did not eliminate the permitting system. Although there has been a predictable decrease in the number of concealed-carry licenses since the law took effect in June ...

Criteria included ease of acquiring a concealed carry permit, costs associated with licensure, training hours required and reciprocity with other states.

Senate Bill 50 would remove the permit and training requirements and lower the age after which concealed carry is legal without a permit to 18. The bill would still keep the permitting system in ...