TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Sam Brownback is preparing to sign a bill allowing Kansas residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit.
The Republican governor’s office set the Statehouse signing ceremony for Thursday. Legislators approved the measure last week, and the new law would take effect July 1.
The National Rifle Association says Kansas will become the fifth state to allow concealed carry without a permit everywhere.
Kansas still would issue permits for gun owners who want to carry concealed in other states that recognize Kansas permits. A person seeking a Kansas permit must undergo eight hours of firearms training.
Supporters of the bill said gun owners have shown they can be trusted to carry concealed.
Critics of the measure say the state should require some training to carry concealed.