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KS Bill Would Allow Carrying Concealed Guns Without A License

Kansas residents would be able to carry a concealed weapon - without a license - under a measure being considered by state lawmakers. Supporters and opponents of the legislation sounded off before a Senate committee.

Currently, Kansans must pass a background check and attend a safety training course before receiving a concealed weapons permit.

The president of the Kansas State Rifle Association, Patricia Stoneking, says residents can already openly carry firearms without a license. She says it makes sense to expand that to concealed carry without a license.

“We have people 18 and up open carrying firearms now, and if their shirt accidentally covers their gun by current law that makes them in violation,” says Stoneking.

But critics question whether it's a good idea to let people carry concealed weapons without training. Overland Park Mayor Carl Gerlach says it takes a license to drive a car and, for safety reasons, it should take a license to carry a concealed firearm.

Stephen Koranda is the managing editor of the Kansas News Service, based at KCUR. He has nearly 20 years of experience in public media as a reporter and editor.