Newsmax: Bill Backs Concealed Carry for Select Veterans

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Rep. Pat Harrigan, R-N.C., introduced a bill that would allow qualified active-duty and honorably discharged special operations personnel to carry concealed firearms.

Harrigan, a former Green Beret, introduced the Special Operations Forces Concealed Carry Act into Congress on April 16.

"Federal law already trusts retired police officers to carry concealed nationwide. That makes sense," he said in a statement. "But it makes no sense that an active or retired SEAL or Green Beret, someone who spent a career mastering firearms under the most demanding conditions in the world, has no equivalent recognition under federal law.

"This bill fixes that. It does not create new rights or weaken any safeguard. It simply extends an existing, proven framework to the warriors who have earned it more than anyone."

Eligible units would include Army Special Forces, the 75th Ranger Regiment, Delta Force, Navy SEALs, Marine Corps Scout Snipers, and Reconnaissance Marines.

Those who qualify would not be required to meet annual firearms requalification.

"The bill would also require veterans to provide proof of identity, including a photo ID issued by the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs," according to the release from Harrigan's office.

Three Republican co-sponsors signed onto the legislation: Reps. Mike Collins of Georgia,  Elijah Crane of Arizona, and John McGuire of Virginia. Crane is a former Navy SEAL.

The bill has been referred to the House Armed Services, Judiciary and Veterans' Affairs committees for further review.