CONCORD – House Majority Leader Richard “Dick” Hinch (R-Merrimack) and Senate Majority Leader Jeb Bradley (R-Wolfeboro) offered the following statements relative to the veto of HB582, repealing the license requirement for carrying a concealed pistol or revolver. The bill passed the House with a bipartisan majority in January, and passed the Senate on a party line vote earlier this month.
House Majority Leader Dick Hinch (R-Merrimack) said:
By vetoing this bill, for the second time in two years, Governor Hassan has denied law abiding gun owners this much needed reform of our laws concerning concealed carry. House and Senate members have been working on this bill for over two years to achieve this important balance that enhanced the rights of citizens, clarified existing laws to prevent misinterpretation, and preserve public safety. The governor has once again demonstrated her unwillingness to compromise and work in a bipartisan fashion on second amendment issues.
Senate Majority Leader Jeb Bradley (R-Wolfeboro) said:
I am disappointed the Governor has vetoed yet again another piece of common sense legislation that allows people to protect their lives liberties and loved ones by exercising their 2nd Amendment rights under the Constitution. In New Hampshire people can openly carry any firearm but Governor Hassan believes law abiding citizens should be required to obtain a special permit to carry a legal weapon on a concealed basis. Vermont has never required a special permit for concealed carry and is the safest state in the nation. New Hampshire should follow suit. I am disappointed Governor Hassan has yet again vetoed legislation that protects the 2nd Amendment.