Gov. Wolf Vetoes Controversial Gun Legislation

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has vetoed a controversial piece of legislation that would have enabled residents to carry concealed guns without a background check and permit.

Senate Bill 565, sponsored by Republican Cris Dush, passed in both the House and Senate in November.

Gov. Wolf, in a veto message, said his action "will in no way affect the rights of the 1.3 million Pennsylvanians who have legally obtained a license to carry or the millions of Pennsylvanians who legally own a firearm."

The governor said the bill would have made gun violence worse across Pennsylvania "and would put law enforcement officers at greater risk of harm."

He added: "Removal of the licensing background investigation will hinder the ability of law enforcement to prevent individuals who should not be able to carry a firearm concealed from doing so. Domestic abusers and other dangerous criminals should not have the ability to carry hidden weapons in our communities."

You can read his full veto message here.