Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee passed House Bill 1072 by a 5-2 vote. Sponsored by Representative Lynne DiSanto (R-35), HB 1072 would remove the requirement to obtain a permit in order to lawfully carry a firearm for self-defense. This important pro-self-defense legislation is a big step forward in allowing South Dakotans to be better able to defend themselves and their loved ones without having to obtain a government issued permit. HB 1072 now moves to the full South Dakota Senate where it will await consideration. Please contact your state Senator and urge them to SUPPORT House Bill 1072.
In South Dakota, it is already legal to carry a firearm openly, as long as the individual is not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. However, under current law, if a firearm becomes covered by a coat or if a woman prefers to carry a firearm for self-protection in her purse, he or she would need to possess a CCHL. This legislation gives South Dakotans the freedom to choose the best method of carrying for them, based on their attire, gender and/or physical attributes. This legislation would also keep in place the current permitting system so that people who obtain a permit could still enjoy the reciprocity agreements that South Dakota has with other states.
