Beginning July 1, 2019, citizens of South Dakota can carry a concealed handgun without a permit. Less than a month into office, Gov. Kristi Noem fulfilled her campaign promise to repeal the requirement requiring a concealed carry permit. Lawmakers who championed the legislation stood behind her as she signed the bill at a desk in the Capitol Rotunda. The group applauded after her signature turned the bill into law.
“It’s special for me to be signing a bill into law that protects our Second Amendment rights,” Noem said afterward. She said she was “proud” that it was the first bill she signed as governor.
The law gives residents the option to choose the best personal protection method for themselves. Citizens can still apply for a concealed handgun permit for reciprocity in other states and it keeps the restrictions in place on who can carry a concealed handgun. Noem also said that the “robust and thoughtful process” has resulted in the bill’s passage.
The Constitution has provided the framework for policies for more than 230 years and while things have changed since it was written, “our American fundamental values have not,” Noem said. She added that the Founding Fathers so firmly believed in the right to bear arms that they included it as the Second Amendment. “I believe this legislation will further protect the Seconds Amendment rights of the citizens of South Dakota and this country.”
There are several bills relating to permitless concealed carry that are still moving through the legislative process. Noem said the bills will continue to go through the committee vetting process.
