WV Gov. Tomblin vetoes bill eliminating need for concealed carry permits
In a shocking turn of events, West Virginia Governor has vetoed a very popular bi-partisan bill that would make West Virginia a Constitutional Carry State.
Admittedly, I am no expert on West Virginia politics, but with the overwhelming support from both parties in which this bill passed made it seem inconceivable that Gov. Tomblin would actually veto the bill.
The worst and most despicable part of this, is that the bill could have been overridden with simple majorities while the legislature was in session. The Legislature adjourned yesterday. Tomblin vetoed the bill this morning.
SB 347 had passed with overwhelming, bi-partisan majorities in both houses. The Senate passed it 32-2, and the House passed it 71-29.
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has vetoed Senate Bill 347, creating the Firearms Act of 2015.
The bill would have allowed someone to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Tomblin cited his concerns for the public safety of law enforcement officers.
“Throughout my career, I have strongly supported the Second Amendment, as demonstrated by my repeated endorsements and high grades from the National Rifle Association,” Tomblin said in a news release about his decision.
“However, I must also be responsive to the apprehension of law enforcement officers from across the state, who have concerns about the bill as it relates to the safety of their fellow officers.
It also would eliminate the required gun safety training courses for those applying for a concealed carry permit.
In light of these concerns and in the interest of public safety for all West Virginians, I have vetoed Senate Bill 347.”
