Senate OKs concealed carry without permit

HELENA (AP) — A bill that would allow concealed carry without a permit is shooting toward passage after receiving the Senate's initial endorsement.

House Bill 304 would allow people carry concealed weapons within city limits without obtaining a concealed-carry permit. The measure is one of the many pro-gun measures on the docket this session.

The Senate endorsed the measure Friday 27-21. It must pass a final vote in the chamber.

Supporters say the so bill would give law-abiding people the freedom to carry concealed weapons if they choose to do so.

Opponents argue people who want to carry a concealed gun should go through the proper channels to receive a permit from the sheriff's office.

State Sens. Jonathan Windy bioy, D-Box Elder, and Sen.Greg Jergeson, D-Chinook, voted no.