Utah’s Constitutional Carry Bill Passes in the State Senate

On February 5, 2021, the Utah Senate passed HB 60, Utah’s Constitutional Carry bill. The bill is now in the process of being kicked back to the House for a concurrence vote before HB 60 lands on Governor Spencer Cox’s desk. 

The NRA-ILA explained what HB 60 does:

House Bill 60, sponsored by Representative Walt Brooks (R-75), allows a law-abiding adult to carry a concealed firearm in the State of Utah, without first needing to obtain government permission. This ensures that citizens have their right to self-defense without government red tape or delays. Additionally, this legislation maintains the existing Concealed Firearm Permit (CFP) system, so citizens who still wish to obtain a permit may do so.

Should Utah pass Constitutional Carry before Montana does, it will become the 17th Constitutional Carry state. Utah is one of America’s most pro-gun states based on its relatively lax gun control laws. It currently enjoys an 8th place ranking for best states for gun owners and 12th place for the best states for concealed carry according to Guns & Ammo magazine’s rankings on these respective issues. 

Putting the rise of Constitutional Carry in perspective, before Arizona passed Constitutional Carry in 2010, there were only two Constitutional Carry states — Vermont and Alaska. By 2025, the U.S. could have well over 20 states with Permitless Carry. 

This is one battle that right-wing activists should keep their eyes on.

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