STATEHOUSE (Jan. 11, 2022) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz's (R-Auburn) legislation supporting Indiana's law-abiding Hoosier gun owners advanced to the Senate today after clearing the Indiana House of Representatives.
House Bill 1077, also known as lawful carry, would allow law-abiding adults who are legally eligible to obtain a carry permit, to carry a handgun without first having to obtain government permission. Smaltz said the bill's passage out of the House brings Indiana one step closer to joining the 21 other states with lawful carry, including Kentucky and Tennessee.
"This bill represents a big win because it cuts government red tape for law-abiding Hoosier gun owners," Smaltz said. "As lawmakers, we need to do what's necessary to protect our Second Amendment rights. That means getting this legislation across the finish line. It's my hope the Senate considers and acts on this important bill this session."
According to Smaltz, House Bill 1077 would not impact current permit holders, the availability of permits in the future or the process to legally purchase a handgun. Hoosiers who purchase a firearm are still required to complete the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives form, and approved by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
Smaltz said the five year and lifetime reciprocity permits, would still be available free to Hoosiers. Permit holders have reciprocity to carry in the 31 other states.
The bill would also enhance the penalty for theft of a firearm from a Level 6 felony to a Level 5 felony, which carries a sentence of between 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on House Bill 1077.
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State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) represents House District 52, which
includes all of DeKalb County, and portions of Steuben and Allen counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
CAPTION: State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) testifies before the House of Representatives on his legislation supporting Hoosier gun owners by ensuring law-abiding adults can carry a firearm without first obtaining a government-issued license Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. The bill received bipartisan support and will now advance to the Indiana Senate for consideration.
