Politics & Government

D.C. Council Votes: Concealed Handguns Allowed in Public

Residents and state license holders will be able to apply for a permit.

For the first time in almost 40 years, concealed handguns will be allowed in public with a permit in D.C.

According to ABC7 News, the D.C. Council had a reluctant, unanimous vote on the issue Tuesday. D.C. residents with registered handguns and nonresidents that have state licenses will be able to apply for the permit.

The bill will go into place for 90 days after licensing framework is complete and Mayor Vincent Gray signs it, which could take weeks, The Washington Post reports. The bill does not allow handguns in schools, government buildings, public transportation, or bars.

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A permanent piece of legislation to carry concealed handguns would involve a longer process with multiple public hearings and council votes, the Post reports.

Read the new bill here.

Find out what's happening in Georgetownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

What do you think of the new D.C. bill? Should concealed handguns be allowed in public? Sound off in the comments below!

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