RALEIGH – Friday, Gov. Josh Stein handed down his first veto of the 2025 session, rejecting Senate Bill 50, which would have allowed North Carolinians aged 18 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit—ushering in “constitutional carry” with no mandatory training or background checks.
In his formal veto message, Stein expressed deep concerns about the bill.
“This bill makes North Carolinians less safe and undermines responsible gun ownership. Authorizing teenagers to carry a concealed weapon with no training whatsoever is dangerous… it makes the job of a law enforcement officer more difficult and less safe.”
Sheriffs across the state backed Stein’s decision, including Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood and Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead, both warning that removing permit requirements would harm public safety .
Yet the bill’s backers remain determined to override. Senate Leader Phil Berger stated:
“Law abiding North Carolinians shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to effectively exercise their Second Amendment rights… I look forward to the Senate overriding Gov. Stein’s veto.”
Rep. Keith Kidwell (R–Beaufort), a leading proponent in the House, echoed that sentiment:
“It allows people to constitutionally carry a firearm without obtaining a permit from the government to exercise their God given right to defend themselves,” he said, urging lawmakers to advance an override.
Veto-Override Outlook
- Senate: Republicans control 30–20, enough for a constitutional three-fifths override.
- House: GOP holds 59–48, but needs at least one Democrat or full attendance to reach the 72-vote threshold; two Republicans already opposed, making attendance key .
Bottom line: Gov. Stein’s veto blocks permitless carry for now, but supporters—including Berger and Kidwell—are preparing for an override vote. With the Senate locked in but the House still precarious, the future of constitutional carry hinges on a narrow band of lawmakers and legislative turnout.
