Nebraska state senate voted 33-14 to pass Legislative Bill 77
which would allow Nebraskans to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. Supporters of the bill, including State Sen. Tom Brewer, who introduced the bill, and Gov. Mike Pillen, argue that the bill is in line with the state’s constitution, which guarantees the right to bear arms for security, self-defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes.
Arguments against the bill LB77
Opponents of the bill, argue that having fewer requirements for a concealed weapon could put lives at risk. Opponents, who have spoken out against the bill over the past several months, notes that the bill covers not just handguns, but any concealed weapons, including high-capacity firearms, knives, and even brass knuckles. She feels the Legislature has failed to answer how it will keep both law enforcement and Nebraska children safe with the bill’s passing, especially as mass shootings and gun violence reach record levels.
Despite the bill’s passing, Opponents say they will continue to fight LB 77 and work for more gun regulations in the state. In this article, we will examine the arguments for and against the bill and what its passage means for Nebraskans.
Arguments for the bill LB 77
Supporters of LB 77 argue that the bill is in line with the Nebraska Constitution, which guarantees the right to bear arms for security, self-defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes. According to Gov. Mike Pillen, signing the bill into law does justice to the constitutional promise made to Nebraskans. Sen. Tom Brewer, who introduced the bill and has been working on it for seven years, feels relieved to see it become law, noting that to have any battle that goes on that long and to succeed is a really good feeling.
Proponents of the bill also argue that the bill will make it easier for law-abiding citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights without having to jump through hoops. Currently, to buy a firearm in Nebraska, one must go through a background check and, if they want a handgun, get a purchasing permit. Anyone who legally owns a gun can openly carry it in the state. Until the bill goes into effect in September, you have to get another permit to conceal your weapon. LB 77 removes the need for a permit to carry a concealed handgun, making it easier for law-abiding citizens to exercise their right to bear arms.
Supporters of the bill also argue that the bill will help to deter crime. They note that criminals are less likely to commit crimes if they know that law-abiding citizens are armed and can defend themselves. They also argue that allowing law-abiding citizens to carry concealed weapons will make it easier for them to protect themselves and others in dangerous situations.
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Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. Laws regarding firearms and concealed carry permits may vary by state and local jurisdiction, and readers are encouraged to seek professional legal advice for any specific questions or concerns they may have. The author and publisher of this blog are not responsible for any actions taken by readers based on the information provided.